LEARN CHARACTER DESIGN IN 10 MINUTES A DAY
Online art classes
with Stephen Silver!
Silver Drawing Academy is an online art school with the goal of creating valuable, affordable, short-form video tutorials to improve your artistic skills.
PRICING
Hey, I'm Stephen
Learn from me – an industry leader
Stephen is responsible for the visual character development and design of some of animation’s most iconic shows; including Disney’s Kim Possible, Nickelodeon’s Danny Phantom, and Disney’s Clerks: The Animated Series, to name a few.
He developed intellectual properties for some of the largest media companies in the world; such as Disney, Warner Bros., Nickelodeon, Sony, MAD Magazine, Reel FX, Bento box, Hasbro, Universal, DreamWorks, and more.
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What is the Silver Drawing Academy?
The program was specially designed to introduce students to drawing, character design, gesture, caricature, and the business of art.
Students will learn industry-standard techniques for producing top-notch character designs and get the tools they need to begin a flourishing art career. This proven program builds confidence while inspiring students with new ideas and daily drills to help them grow.
Join the Silver Drawing Academy
Over 400+Â video lessons
Beginning Techniques
Whether you're a beginner or seasoned professional; this is a great place to start. Get an exciting refresher on the fundamentals.
Drawing Heads
Learn how to construct and draw the human head in a variety of styles, angles, and shapes
Gesture
Add life and energy to a range of poses. Discover how to observe and capture movement in any drawing you create. These techniques can be applied to animation, illustration, and more.
Party Caricature
Sharpen your observation skills and learn how to break down a face, accurately capture likeness, and produce studio quality caricatures. Become equipped to take on freelance work.
The Silver Way Overview
Access video lessons reviewing the core principles of The Silver Way, one of the top ranked books on character design. Receive step by step breakdowns of concepts outlined in the text to reinforce what you’ve read.
Developing Characters
Discover industry standards for character design; including clean-up, turnarounds, lineups, expression sheets, and more. Design an array of characters in different styles. Understand what you need to show potential clients in order to get work.
Drawing Animals
Watch as I break down animal shapes and explain my methods. Learn how to find the character in references and explore different art styles as the course progresses.
Drawing Drills
Explore daily drawing drills specially designed to polish observation and drafting skills while boosting confidence.
Character Drawing Prompts
Do you struggle to come up with character ideas? This category will help by providing innumerable suggestions for you to draw.
Plus...Â
Live Weekly Meetups
Join 5 live sessions each month to stay connected, motivated, and active. Ask me questions as we draw together.
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Plus...
Live Weekly Art Talks
with Stephen Silver
Get FREE access to my weekly Art Talks by joining the SDA newsletter today! Get art tips, learning opportunities, and special offers sent straight to your inbox. These Art Talks will inspire, encourage and help guide you in attaining your goals.
PortfolioÂ
Review/CAREER ADVICE
Make your portfolio stand out to recruiters and art schools. Live 30 minute private session with Stephen Silver - former Disney Television Animation Recruiter.
Sign Up For A Session
Student Showcase
"This course has been one of the best investments I have ever made.
Right from the end of week one I saw improvement in my drawing that has continued to progress over the course of the eight weeks that I have taken the class. I have learned a tremendous amount, seen my skills improve, and have been encouraged by taking this course. I highly recommend taking it to anyone who wants to learn character design or for designers, like me, who want to improve and be better at their craft."
Tad Butler, Member
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"I already feel stronger about my skills!
Thank you os much for the critiques, Stephen, it was SO much help! I really pushed the tilts and used the egg theory to help me keep the direction and volumes even. I loved the new version so much I did a tighter finish on it! The tips really helped me so much!
I can't thank you enough that you took the time to help me! I already feel stronger about my skills!"
Member
Stephen Silver
Born in London and currently residing in Los Angeles with his wife and two kids; Stephen Silver has been a professional working artist, character designer, and teacher in the industry for over 30 years. He developed intellectual properties for some of the largest media companies in the world; such as Disney, Warner Bros., Nickelodeon, Sony, MAD Magazine, Reel FX, Bento box, Hasbro, Universal, DreamWorks, and more.
Stephen is responsible for the visual character development and design of some of animation’s most iconic shows; including Disney’s Kim Possible, Nickelodeon’s Danny Phantom, and Disney’s Clerks: The Animated Series, to name a few. Visit Stephen Silver's website to learn more.
More About Me
Who is this
membership for?
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Aspiring Character Designers: Ideal for individuals with a passion for character design, whether beginners or those looking to refine their skills.
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Art Students: A valuable resource for art students seeking to supplement their formal education with specialized character design knowledge.
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Professionals in Animation and Illustration: Perfect for professionals in the animation and illustration industries looking to enhance their character design expertise.
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Hobbyists and Enthusiasts: Open to anyone who loves drawing and wants to explore the world of character design, regardless of their skill level.
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Portfolio Development: Receive guidance on building a standout character design portfolio, essential for those pursuing a career in animation, illustration, or related fields.
