Finding Nemo, Monster’s Inc., The Incredibles- these titles name only a few of the popular movies that utilize the burgeoning computer animation industry.
Through computer graphics and animation one can create virtually anything. Since such a broad field of possibility is offered to artists, they are no longer limited to a canvas and easel.
“Computer graphics are a good way to do art instead of painting,” Rebecca Wilson, ’06, said. “Computer artists can do more without limitations.”
Wilson decided a year ago that computer animation was the career she would most like to pursue.
“One of my main dreams is to work for Pixar,” Wilson said. “I love their animation work.”
The desire to create also drives Dan Kruse, ’06, to pursue a career in computer graphics.
“Computers have always been an interesting field to me,” Kruse said. “And since I love to create, I knew it was what I wanted to do.”
Ashley Gable, ’05, discovered through yearbook how much she enjoyed computer graphics.
“I didn’t know I wanted to pursue a career in graphics until I took yearbook this year,” Gable said. “I decided through working with the computers in that class that it was something I really liked.”
Some students put their current computer knowledge to use as they gain experience in their future field of work.
“I never really knew much about computers before this year,” Gable said. “Now, I’m supposed to design a webpage with my brother for my grandparents’ bakery.”
What interests many about computer graphics is the broad range of options it offers.
“Computers provide unlimited possibilities and a wealth of information and creativity,” Kruse said. “I love creating things, and now I can create any shape I please in a perfect aspect with the help of computer animation.”
The big screen is what inspired Wilson to work with tiny computer pixels to create new and exciting movies.
“I’ve seen how Pixar progresses in their movies and work,” Wilson said. “I’m just fascinated by it and I want to be a part of something special like that.”
Kruse plans to focus on inventing video games.
“I want to do modeling [shape creation], animation and a little bit of texturing,” Kruse said. “I would love to go into video games mainly as a modeler and possibly later even work on movies.”
Computer graphics require an eye for trends and a passion for setting new fads.
“I like designing things,” Gable said. “I like little details. It’s fun setting graphics up and making them perfect.”
Although the amount of detail that goes into computer animation can be daunting, the finished product is worth it.
“It’s a challenge,” Wilson said. “There are so many tools you can use and things to remember. But, when you’re done with the product and you’re satisfied with it, you know you want to do it again.”
For more information on computer graphics, visit http://www.bergen.org/AAST/ComputerAnimation or www.pixar.com.
