VFS Intro to Character Design (Online) JAN 22 - MARCH 5, 2026

Ever wondered how famous characters like Batman are created? Want to learn what makes a character stand out in a compelling narrative? In this 7-week course, you will discover how to design effective characters for animated stories & video games and analyze & distill what makes a character memorable. From shape to clothing to prop colour choices, character designers consider every detail of how a character becomes an integral part of a story.

You’ll learn from industry professionals about the character design pipeline, from concept to research to actual design. By the end of this course, you will have designed a basic character that can be used as part of your portfolio to apply for post-secondary study.

Course Details:

Date: January 22 - March 5, 2026

Duration: 7-week course, one online class per week

Time: Thursdays, 5:30p.m. – 8:30 p.m. PST (Vancouver Time Zone)

Cost: $950

Learning Outcomes – Participants Will:

Identify what makes a character stand out and be memorable.

Learn how design choices are made to enhance a character’s effectiveness.

Create and organize character sheets – an important piece of the puzzle.

Learn about the industry pipeline.

Learn how to draw with intent.

Explore how to give critiques and constructive feedback to your peers.

Create stories for your character and design a basic character to use as part of your portfolio.

Requirements:

Computer with dual monitors (recommended), microphone, and camera

Stable Internet connection (wired connection recommended)

Sketchbook and sketching materials (pen, eraser)

Something to sketch on (i.e., a notepad, iPad, tablet, pen & paper)

Drawing tablet/Cintiq/iPad (i.e., some sort of drawing tablet)

Adobe Photoshop or drawing program of your choice (Procreate, Infinite Painter, ClipStudio Paint, Fresco, etcetera)

Prerequisites:

Some experience with character drawing OR knowledge of human anatomy relating to design