PORTLAND, Oregon — A brand new partnership between LAIKA Studios and Portland Community College (PCC) is aiming to help students dive into the animation and motion graphics industry. On Tuesday, PCC announced it will receive $60,000, in two $30,000 annual gifts, from LAIKA for their PCC Foundation.
The school said the funding will go towards scholarships, tools and creating an associate degree in Animation & Motion Graphics, enhancing educational opportunities for aspiring animators in Oregon.
“It’s definitely a game changer," said Erik Fauske, the PCC multimedia instructor. "It’s making this equipment that’s pretty expensive, very equitable and accessible for students to learn animations and stop motion.”
Fauske says the school already offers this curriculum in other programs. Though students could soon take three new Animation and Stop Motion courses and pursue an Associates Degree in animation and motion graphics — once it’s state approved.
PCC said "This would provide students with a comprehensive curriculum offering that blends traditional and digital animation techniques. Through co-created studios and industry-standard facilities, students would gain hands-on experience and practical skills under the guidance of experienced professionals."
“It’s going to provide a variety of resources and tools and excitement in our program,” he added.
PCC currently has one of the most diverse student populations with 46% of students identifying as being of color, according to the college. And this partnership reaffirms the school's mission to promote equity within the creative arts.
KGW asked Fauske what he thought of when he looks at the work of the students.“ I love it!” said Fauske. “I just get really excited to see some of the creativity, the artistic and technical skills being combined. I think that’s what a big part of the program is.”
LAIKA will also provide PCC students with internship opportunities and portfolio reviews which is supported by the Oregon Film Office.