The course focuses on the use of world building and concept art for films, series, computer games, comics or other visual art products. Through assignments, talks and lectures the teachers and guest lecturers will inspire and challenge the students over the course of 12 weeks.
The course starts with a solid introduction to the principles and tools of world building including idea development, visual development, research, world writing and story writing, all contributing to the creation of a professional story bible.
As the course progresses, the focus shifts more towards concept art and the development of concrete art skills and illustrations related to presenting the world. During this phase, the students will go deeper into the design of the world, including characters, environments, etc. The last weeks are devoted to producing the actual concept art according to industry standards and using methods of 3D blocking and digital painting. The course will be rounded off by a week focused on targeting audiences, marketing and distribution, and exam presentations (preparing for the exam at the end of the course).
Project-based training
In the beginning of the course, the tools of world building will be introduced on an entirely new project in a group work setting, organized by the instructor(s) in order to ensure open minds and fresh ideas. After the introduction weeks, the students will be given the choice of either continuing to develop the project from the introduction weeks or starting a different project, be it an existing personal project that they wish to develop or an entirely new idea. This project will be the focus of the rest of the course. Group work is encouraged, but in this phase it is also possible to work individually.
Instructors
The course is taught by a few main instructors, who you can read about under “Instructors”. They were chosen because of their very solid experience in the creative industries, with world building and/or concept art respectively, as well as their extensive teaching experience.
Especially during the world building phase, there will also be a number of talks conducted by guest lecturers on various topics related to science, history, technology, religion, anthropology, etc.
Other shorter or longer workshops on pitching, writing, etc. may also be taught by guest lecturers.
What you get:
- An intensive course developed together with industry professionals (our main instructors)
- A solid introduction to the concepts and tools of World Building, and an understanding of its potential
- Time and guidance on developing the concept art for your project, both technically and from the design perspective
- Guidance on how to make your project meet its market, including pitching, marketing and fundraising
- Instructors that are all active professionals with solid experience in their areas of specialization
- The opportunity to focus intensively on the development of a project for a longer period of time
- A professional network
- Access to all extra-curricular activities at TAW: sports, yoga, meditation, evening croquis, lectures, parties etc.
- 12 weeks immersed in a highly creative and social environment
- Assistance with housing and travel advice
PLEASE NOTE: all students are required to bring a computer with Adobe Creative Suite, as well as a Wacom board, Cintiq or similar.