Student Academy Awards

SAA Winners at Dreamworks Animation

Like they weren’t doing enough cool stuff, the Student Academy Award Winners were invited to a screening at Dreamworks Animation.

Director Steve Hickner, of DreamWorks Animation introduced this years SAA winning animated shorts and everyone had a blast watching:

Here are two of this year’s animation winners, David Wolter and Eric Prah:

Oh no, man down!

Then everyone was given an awesome tour of DreamWorks Animation studios:

“And over here we have a giant Madagascar 3 poster”:

“And here is a giant koi pond”:

We weren’t allowed to take pictures in most places at DreamWorks Animation but take our word for it - it’s unbelievably cool.  And has a secret bar.

A Closer Look At This Year’s Student Academy Award Animation Winners

Now that this year’s Student Academy Award winners have been announced, here’s a closer look at who took home the honors in the Animation category this year:

“The Jockstrap Raiders” - Mark Nelson - University of California, Los Angeles

Here is a making of the hilarious, gag-ridden “The Jockstrap Raiders.” Going from the initial sketches of the characters through all the computer work. 

You can also check out more from Mark Nelson on his Vimeo page.

“My Little Friend” - Eric Prah - Ringling College of Art and Design

Here is the progression of the character design of the hobo protagonist of “My Little Friend”, a cute short with a very dark twist.

Check out more from Eric Prah on his blog.

“Eyrie” - David Wolter - California Institute of the Arts

“Eyrie” is only non-comedy animation winner this year.  It tells a compelling story that goes in a direction you won’t expect.  Watch the full short here.

And see more from David Wolter on his blog.