As I approached the gates of Interlochen Center for the Arts, a sense of wonder enveloped me. Nestled amidst the beauty of Michigan, I was about to embark on a 5-week journey into the world of animation, a dream I had harbored since childhood.

The Setting:

Interlochen is a sanctuary for artists. Surrounded by lakes and forests, the setting is an inspiration in itself. But it’s not just the natural beauty; the entire place hums with creativity. Everywhere you look, there are young artists honing their craft - whether it be in music, dance, theatre, or as in my case, animation.

The Course:

Our course was held in a state-of-the-art studio, equipped with the latest tools and software. But it wasn’t just about technology. Our mentors emphasized the importance of storytelling, the very heart of animation. Over the course of 5 weeks, we were taken through the entire process - from ideation and storyboarding to the final production of a short animated clip.

The Teachers:

The faculty was a mix of experienced animators and industry experts. They were not just teachers but passionate artists who lived and breathed animation. Their feedback was invaluable. They pushed us, challenged us, and encouraged us to think outside the box.

The Cohort:

I was lucky to be part of an incredibly talented and diverse group. Coming from different parts of the world, each brought a unique perspective to the table. Late-night brainstorming sessions, collaborative projects, and the occasional weekend outings created bonds that I'm sure will last a lifetime.

Beyond Animation:

While animation was my primary focus, Interlochen offered so much more. Every evening, there were performances, exhibitions, and showcases from other disciplines. I watched spellbinding theatre productions, listened to soul-stirring music recitals, and was enthralled by contemporary dance performances. These experiences enriched my perspective as an artist.

Challenges & Triumphs:

As with any intensive course, there were challenges. There were days when ideas wouldn’t flow, or the software would be particularly stubborn. But with the support of the faculty and my peers, every hurdle turned into a learning experience. By the end of the course, not only did I have a short animated film to my name but a treasure trove of memories and skills.

The Grand Finale:

The last week was a whirlwind of activity. We showcased our animations to an appreciative audience, received our certificates, and had a gala celebration. It was a bittersweet farewell, but I left with the knowledge that I was now part of the larger Interlochen family.

In Conclusion:

My summer at Interlochen Center for the Arts was transformative. It wasn’t just about learning animation but about immersing oneself in a world of creativity. As I headed home, with my head full of ideas and my heart full of gratitude, I knew one thing for certain: This was just the beginning of my journey in the world of animation