Creature Combat Animation in Maya
Advanced Animation Techniques with Stephen Cunnane
Description
Learn how to navigate the complex art of animating creature fights, as demonstrated by animator Stephen Cunnane. In this 5-hour workshop, Stephen walks through three shots of a fight sequence between two different species of creatures. From gathering references to coordinating each punch, he breaks down, step by step, what artists need to know before creating intense fight scenes using Maya.
Starting from staging the fight choreography, artists will discover how to use references and storyboarding techniques to plan out how a fight unfolds in a sequence. Then, moving into Maya, he demonstrates how to prepare and block in the fight. Using key tools and creature rigs, Stephen shows how to leverage specific techniques for a more accurate and effective combat scene.
Throughout the workshop, Stephen demonstrates a professional balance of art with technical knowledge, following animation principles for expressive performance with creatures, and getting creative with Maya's tools. By completing this workshop, artists will understand how to approach challenging animation shots professionally.
This workshop utilizes the King Kong rig and Ben Dragon rig by Truong Cg Artist.
Duration: 5h 00m
Format: HD 1920x1080
Stephen Cunnane
Animator at CBS
Stephen Cunnane is a versatile animator and previs artist with a rich portfolio spanning film, television, and independent projects. Since graduating from the Gnomon School in 2016, he has contributed to major productions including Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Venom: Let There Be Carnage, Hellboy (2019), The Walking Dead, Lost in Space, and Wonka.
Stephen’s expertise covers both visual effects animation and previs, with experience at renowned studios such as Framestore and CBS-VFX. He also pursues personal projects that demonstrate his mastery of Maya and Blender.
In addition to animation, Stephen is an accomplished director of short films, including Drifter (2012) and The Model (2016), the latter of which earned recognition at film festivals.
