๐ŸŽฌ In Motion v2

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In Motion v2

Motion design is a powerful, foundational feature of digital screens. It helps direct the viewerโ€™s attention, present information sequentially, add personality or depth to otherwise static graphics, contextualize interactive elements, and so much more. In this studio elective, students will learn the fundamentals of motion design and explore a wide variety of video and animation techniques. We will look at a wide range of influences and styles ranging from stop motion animation, to film title sequences, to early-Internet Flash animations, to interface design, to contemporary practices for brand identities and social media.

Instruction will focus on digital motion design using Adobe After Effects, with additional tutorials in Premiere Pro, audio production, and HTML/CSS for web-based animations. Students will leave the course with a broad overview of the field of motion design and a deep understanding of rhythm, timing, sequence, narrative, and expression.

  • RISD
  • Fall 2025
  • GRAPH 2216

Course Materials

Syllabus

An overview of the full course.

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Schedule

Agenda and homework for each week.

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Tutorials

Learn how to animate using After Effects, as well as pick up a few other tricks!

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Inspiration

Links to wide range of animation references!

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Exercises

Quick, fun assignments that weโ€™ll complete during class.

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Prepping your files for submission

Tutorial for how to export, compress, and package your After Effects projects!

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Student Work Folder

Upload your finished projects here!

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Motion Tools Classic (AE Plug-in)

A free plug-in that makes some things in After Effects easier.

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Projects

P1: Rehearsal

Create a hand drawn, looping animation inspired by your favorite song (or a song you like)!

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P2: Overture

Animate 15 motion studies, each inspired by a different musical concept!

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P3: Intermission

Put together the ugliest, hardest to watch animation you can possibly conceive of!

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P4: Showstopper

Tell us a story through kinetic typography!

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P5: Encore

Apply motion graphics to a series of user experience scenarios!

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PS: Dramaturgy

Research an assigned style of motion design and create a presentation for the class!

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Lectures

Week 1

  • 9/9/25

Week 2

  • 9/16/25
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