Maya and other struggles...

So, this is my first real blog entry, it’s finally time to set type to electronic page.

I guess I’ll start with the Maya workshop we had on Tuesday, as it was the first Animation Practice session I’ve been to for a while. I’m familiar with using computers and was looking forward to receiving training in some new software, but found most of this day dull and frustrating. I think this largely came from the fact that the computer I am working at is situated too far away to either see the demonstration on the screen, or hear clearly what the tutor is explaining. This meant that if I missed even the smallest stage in the process it was very difficult to catch up. Luckily Richard was always on hand to help explain what I’d missed, but ultimately it meant the session was slow, stilted and maddening! I also have no idea what project we were set to complete for next week. Hopefully I can find someone to explain it to me before it’s too late! Little help?

I am very comfortable creating 2D images in Photoshop and Illustrator, but I struggle to visualise in 3D; my brain doesn’t hold 3D layouts or images very well. This is not to say I don’t want to work in 3D, but I think it will take a lot of practice to be confident with Maya.

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I would also like to comment on the Wednesday Screening. As I mentioned above, I have missed several of the Animation Practice sessions and feel quite a long way behind the rest of the group. Seeing what everyone had produced was both inspiring and intimidating! The progress since the first project “Heavy Figure on Springboard” (which incidentally I am still working on – argh!) is amazing. Probably the one I liked the best was Cherie’s, which really seemed to be telling a story through the interaction between the two characters. I’m even more aware of the work I have to catch up!