INTRO TO VISUAL DEVELOPMENT
The Intro To Visual Development workshop at The Art Club is open to all-levels of students. Students be guided through the fundamental concepts that drive compelling visual storytelling in the animation industry. We’ll explore how design principles, character design, and color work together to support visual storytelling. Along the way, I’ll share insights and methods drawn from my own professional practice.
By the end of the course, you’ll have a stronger foundation to support your growth as a visual development artist. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen your existing skills with greater confidence and efficiency.
Dates
COMING SOON
Time
COMING SOON
Location
The Art Club - Discord: <https://discord.gg/TZb8wK292j> Green Classroom
FORMAT
Class meets once a week on Discord
Recorded Access: Class recordings are provided after the course, viewable for one year.
Homework must be uploaded to Google Drive folder before the next class begins
The class enrollment is limited to a maximum of 10 students.
THE FACULTY
Derek Ortega is a visual development artist and illustrator based in Los Angeles, California. With over eight years of experience in animation, he has contributed to a wide range of projects as a visual development artist and character designer. His work includes collaborations with major studios such as Laika, Netflix, Disney, Sony, Warner Brothers, Cartoon Network, and others.
You can see more of his work at: https://www.derekortega.com/
Prerequisites
This is an all-level class. In order to have a productive learning experience for all, prospective students need to fulfill the following requirements:
Drawing/Painting software (Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, etc.)
Computer with microphone (camera optional)
Access to Google Drive
Access to Discord
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Who is this Workshop for?
The Intro To Visual Development course is designed for beginner to intermediate artists who want to enhance their visual storytelling abilities and deepen their understanding of how design, character, and color work together in animation. The course focuses on helping you apply the taught visual development fundamentals with purpose, clarity, and confidence.
Current College Students – looking to strengthen their visual development skills, build a clearer design process, and participate in assignments that support both coursework and portfolio growth.
Professionals – in animation, illustration, or adjacent fields who want to reinforce foundational principles, refine their visual storytelling, and work more efficiently in a production-minded way.
Hobbyists – who want a structured, supportive introduction to visual development and are eager to develop stronger storytelling instincts through hands-on practice.
Understand and apply the core principles of visual development.
Strengthen visual storytelling skills through intentional design choices.
Build a solid foundation in design fundamentals used in animation.
Create a single, cohesive visual development project from start to finish.
