Working with charcoal, paper, your smartphone and a simple app, you will create a mini-movie inspired by the British Library exhibition Alexander the Great: The Making of a Myth with tutor Leo Crane. Alexander’s story continues to evolve, as artists, novelists and filmmakers present him as a hero in tune with the values of our own age, often exploring his sexuality, motivation, and leadership qualities. You will be encouraged to find your own connection with the ancient hero to create something contemporary and personal.

Drawing, capturing, erasing and re-drawing, you will make a series of ephemeral frames to produce your own moving image. You will start with an introduction to inspiring charcoal animations, the process and technical set up. You will then have time to develop your animation ideas, with creative and technical support throughout the weekend.

By the end of the course, you will have learnt the fundamentals of drawing in charcoal, as well as animation techniques that you can continue at home. You will have explored ways of reinterpreting an ancient story and leave with a short silent film ready to share online, should you wish.

This course will run across the following dates:

• Saturday 18 February 2023, 10.30 – 17.00

• Sunday 19 February 2023, 10.30 – 17.00

For more information and to book, please visit the British Library website.