Fantasies in Motion: an Animation Workshop

Participate in this animation workshop run by one of the Feral Form Fantasies (an exhibition in our KIOSK gallery) artists, Lindsay Kovnat. Fantasies in Motion: an Animation Workshop Created in dialogue with the Feral Form Fantasies exhibition's theme of animals and women, this hands-on workshop explores the psychological and symbolic relationship between femininity and animal forms through pixelation animation. Pixelation is a form of stop-motion animation in which real people become the moving frames. Participants will work in small groups to create short animated sequences that involve physical interaction with stuffed animals, dolls, and soft sculptures. Through subtle shifts in posture, gesture, and proximity, we'll explore themes of instinct, care, hierarchy, power, vulnerability, protection, transformation, and projection. We will discuss what it means to be female or feminine in our society today, what different animals symbolize across cultures, and how we consciously or unconsciously project these meanings onto animal forms. The discussion will inspire our animation. Participants are encouraged to bring a stuffed animal, doll, or soft sculpture to animate. Extra credit if your doll or animal has wire inside, allowing for more expressive posing and movement. A small selection of materials will be available for those who don't bring objects. No prior animation experience is required. We'll use accessible tools (phones or tablets) to capture frame-by-frame movement. The focus is on expressive storytelling and conceptual exploration rather than technical perfection. By the end of the workshop, participants will have created a short, collaborative animation and gained new insight into how gesture, repetition, and symbolism can transform simple materials into emotionally resonant narratives. About the Instructor: Lindsay Kovnat is a multidisciplinary artist working across painting, sculpture, and hand-drawn animation. Her work explores psychological symbolism, feminine identity, and the charged relationship between women and animal archetypes. Drawing from surrealism, experimental materials, and narrative imagery, she creates richly textured worlds that blur instinct, vulnerability, and power. As a teaching artist, Lindsay encourages expressive risk-taking and material experimentation. She helps students move beyond perfectionism and into imagery that feels emotionally resonant and personally symbolic. Pricing: • Everyone is welcome at this workshop! You do not have to have a MakerSpace membership or any affiliation with Utility Works. These tickets are $15. • This Workshop is has special pricing for MakerSpace Equipment Members. Reach out to our Programs Coordinator, LEE at [email protected] to receive your member access code. If you are interested in a membership check out our membership page here. Parking: • Street Parking is metered on the side and front of the building. • The Highland avenue parking lot behind Dunkin Doughnuts is also available for parking, which is also metered. First Floor Accessibility • Inclusive Design: Our first floor is designed to be inclusive and ensure accessibility for all. • Approachable Entrance: Our entrance is approachable to all who enter, providing ease of access for everyone. • Accessible Restroom: We offer an accessible gender-neutral bathroom for the convenience of all visitors. • Wide Hallways: Our hallway is wide enough to accommodate wheelchair users, ensuring smooth and easy navigation.