CDW workshops are split into two semesters to work alongside the Flinders University schedule. Those who are not enrolled in the Bachelor of Creative Arts (Visual Effects & Entertainment Design) degree can sign up for one of our 12 week workshops.
Each class will push your drawing, painting, modelling/texturing, animation and design skills to the next level. During the workshops you will learn how to use industry specific programs and techniques with a focus on building your portfolio/showreel. You will see LIVE demonstrations in every class. During each workshop students are given set assignments throughout the semester and will receive weekly feedback on their work.
Each CDW course is taught by working industry professionals who have worked for a range of international companies such as Disney, Blizzard Entertainment, Rising Sun Pictures, WETA, Wizards of the Coast and LEGO, just to name a few.
Online Short Courses
Our online short courses are run in conjunction with Flinders University and are targeted at the beginner to intermediate level. These are non-accredited opportunities to learn directly from industry professionals, build your portfolio and upskill in your areas of interest.
Intro Workshops
We recommend that you start with any of our foundation (intro) courses before applying for our more advanced classes.
Workshop Guide:
VFX
Game Art
3D
2D
Animation
Workshop
Full
Intro to Character Design
With Peter Yong
Mon 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Intro to Creature Design
With Bryan Wynia
Tue 12:30pm - 3:30pm
Intro to 3D
With Joseph Roberts
Thu 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Workshop
Full
Intro to Digital Painting
With Simon Scales
Thu 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Workshop
Full
Intro to Digital Painting
With Nathan Elmer
Thu 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Intermediate Workshops
Our intermediate workshops are aimed at intermediate to advanced level skill sets. Each class is based on assumed foundation-level knowledge and is taught by a world-class industry professional.
Workshop Guide:
VFX
Game Art
3D
2D
Animation
2D Animation 1
With Greg Holfeld
Tue 9:00am - 12:00pm
Vehicle & Mech Design 1
With Ned Rogers
Wed 6:30pm - 9:00pm
Storyboarding 1
With David Follett
Tue 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Matte Painting & VFX 1
With Josh Ellem
Tue 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Character Portraits 1
With Alex Owen
Tue 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Workshop
Full
Character Design 1
With Tim McBurnie
Wed 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Character Design 1
With Nick Pill
Wed 6:00pm - 9:00pm
3D Animation 1
With Joe Helmore
Wed 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Workshop
Full
Digital Painting 1
With Ned Rogers
Thu 6:00pm - 9:00pm
3D Anatomy 1
With Bryan Wynia
Fri 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Advanced Workshops
Our advanced workshops are aimed at intermediate to advanced level skill sets. Each class is based on assumed foundation-level knowledge and is taught by a world-class industry professional.
Workshop Guide:
VFX
Game Art
3D
2D
Animation
2D Animation 2
With Greg Holfeld
Times TBA
Storyboarding 2
With David Follett
Tue 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Vehicle & Mech Design 2
With Ned Rogers
Wed 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Character Design 2
With D.M. Cornish
Wed 2:00pm - 5:00pm
3D Animation 2
With Joe Helmore
Wed 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Digital Painting 2
With Ned Rogers
Fri 2:00pm - 5:00pm
3D Anatomy 2
With Bryan Wynia
Fri 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Bachelor of Creative Arts (Visual Effects and Entertainment Design
The following workshops are exclusively for artists enrolled in the Bachelor of Creative Arts (Visual Effects and Entertainment Design). Artists also get to study any of the above workshops as part of their degree.
Workshop Guide:
VFX
Game Art
3D
2D
Animation
Testimonials
Jeffrey Talbot
I chose to study at CDW after seeing the quality of instruction offered by the industry professional teachers. CDW offered the best possible way for me to learn the skills I need to become a concept artist. I wanted the skills needed to get my foot in the door as a working concept artist. The experience at CDW changed my life as it set me on the path to becoming a concept artist. I have also gained many lifelong friends in both students and teachers along the way.
Phoebe Minervini
My experience so far at CDW has been nothing short of incredible. The atmosphere of alone is inspiring and the instructors are thorough, friendly and always eager to help steer you in the right direction with your work. Throughout my studies thus far, I have seen nothing but improvement in my own work and I’ve had an amazing time studying here.
Jonathan Wenburg
I chose CDW Studios because I wanted a career in visual development. In my opinion there is no better way to learn than to learn from the Pros who can teach you the skill and the realities of working in the entertainment industry. Since I arrived at CDW I have grown not only as an artist but as a person as well. I’ve met friends that inspire and motivate me every day.
