Summer Workshops
Exceptional Minds summer workshops invite students to explore new tools and gain hands-on skills in the digital arts. Designed specifically for students on the autism spectrum, these workshops are a great way for beginners to learn the basics, or for more advanced learners to expand their software knowledge and build their portfolio. Each two-week intensive session is offered virtually or in person (Los Angeles, California).
All students must have a diagnosis of autism and be age 14 or older (no age maximum).
Schedule and pricing
Step 1: Take a virtual or in person tour
Step 2: Apply
Step 3: Sign Up
Course descriptions
This unique workshop will focus on a mixture of different techniques employed in the different animation production phases. Topics may include character design, storyboarding, principles of animation, morphs, or various other techniques. Great for students looking to expand their horizens into different animation areas using Adobe Animate and Photoshop software. Recommended for both beginners and intermediate level students.
Animate in 3D using Blender! This workshop covers key principles of 3D animation, including posing, weight, timing, and acting. Students will work with a pre-rigged character to create expressive performances and dynamic movement. A great introduction to bringing digital characters to life!
This workshop is designed for artists, designers, and enthusiasts eager to master the fundamentals of sculpting 3D models using Blender software. Through hands-on projects and guided instruction, participants will learn essential sculpting techniques,. surface modification, texturing, and rendering, culminating in a final detailed 3D model.
This workshop introduces students to the art of storyboarding for animation. Using Photoshop, students will learn framing, composition, shot sequencing, and visual storytelling techniques to bring their ideas to life. Ideal for students interested in directing, animation, comic/manga design, or visual storytelling.
Create an animated cartoon using Adobe Animate software! This super fun class gives young artists the opportunity to make their creative ideas come to life. Recommended for both beginners and intermediate level students.
Edit together an exciting, professional-quality movie trailer! In this workshop, students will use Adobe Premiere to edit footage, add music, and craft a compelling narrative through pacing and montage. Learn how editors build tension, emotion, and excitement through strategic cutting and sound design.
Develop original character concepts with professional-level design techniques! This course focuses on silhouette, gesture, anatomy, and storytelling through design. Using Photoshop, students will create creature characters that stand out and feel alive. Traditional drawing techniques and Adobe Photoshop will be employed.
In this workshop, students will learn the basics skills of replacing green backgrounds with different environments using the student’s imagination from filmed/found footage. As the workshop progresses, students will combine multiple shots to create a story that utilizes basic VFX techniques in Adobe After Effects and Adobe Premiere. The only limit is your imagination!
Design and animate characters and environments using Adobe Animate. Beginners will learn how to utilize the program to make their own simple animations, bringing ideas to life! Intermediate level students are encouraged to enroll as well as beginniers so they can continue developing their own original animations.
Learn the basics of 3D creation employing modeling and animation techniques! Using Blender, students will to develop 3D objects, utilize the timeline to create movement, and develop basic rendered imagery. This course is great for those looking to learn how to do the overall basics in 3D sofrware.
A Mashup of pixel art creation and background design using Photoshop. Participants will learn how to think like a pixel artist: simplifying forms, mastering color palettes, and using light, shading, and composition to create detailed visuals at a miniature scale. The workshop also incorperates the fundamentals of environment design, allowing users to use the brushes in Adobe Photoshop to create detailed backgrounds.
Build immersive game environments using the popular software Unreal Engine! This workshop introduces students to level design, terrain sculpting, lighting, and material creation. Learn how to craft stunning 3D worlds, whether for games, virtual production, or interactive storytelling. No prior experience required!
Create stunning visual effects inspired by sci-fi and fantasy! Students will use Adobe After Effects to design glowing energy sabers, magical spells, and other cinematic effects. Learn the Saber plugin and other techniques to bring supernatural elements to life.
Sound makes animation come alive! In this workshop, students will learn the fundamentals of sound design for animation, including recording, layering, and editing sound effects using Adobe Audition. Explore how sound shapes mood, enhances storytelling, and adds realism to animated projects.
Find your voice! This workshop explores voice acting techniques, script interpretation, and performance styles for animated characters. Students will record and edit their own voice lines using Adobe Audition, learning how to bring personality and emotion into their performances. A great course for aspiring voice actors and animators alike!