Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation

PAFA's concentration in Animation offers students an opportunity to explore the ever-expanding world of this art form.

Our unique program connects PAFA's world-class undergraduate training in studio arts with moving imagery and narrative storytelling, emphasizing experimental fine art-based approaches to animation, including stop-motion and 2D animation techniques. The program also provides students with professional training on the latest digital platforms and techniques, preparing them for career paths in the animation industry.

PAFA has a long history with moving images that can be traced back to the institution's earliest days with founder Charles Willson Peale's "moving pictures". PAFA's narrative painting tradition laid the groundwork for many alumni to explore kinetic and time-based artforms, including pioneering experimental animator Mary Ellen Bute (1906–1983) and award-winning filmmaker and artist David Lynch. Lynch created his first moving work, Six Men Getting Sick, as a student at PAFA. This tradition continues to the present day, and PAFA offers video and moving image courses at both the graduate and undergraduate level, with numerous students and faculty working in various forms of time-based media.

With over 200 years of experience training artists, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts nurtures the artistic development of our students through degree programs in undergraduate and graduate fine arts education.

The School of Fine Arts offers a world-class professional education that focuses exclusively on the success of the emerging fine artist. Our priority is the quality, comprehensiveness, and relevance of a fine arts education to develop and pursue an artistic vision wherever it may lead.

PAFA educates artists from around the world to be innovative makers and critical thinkers with a deep understanding of traditions and the ability to challenge conventions. Learn more about the admissions process, attend an open house, or schedule a campus visit.