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.

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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+ 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... 
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.

Portfolio 
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.

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Student Showcase

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?

The SDA platform is dedicated to empowering aspiring artists with the skills and knowledge needed to master the art of character design.
  • Aspiring Character Designers: Ideal for individuals with a passion for character design, whether beginners or those looking to refine their skills.

  • Art Students: A valuable resource for art students seeking to supplement their formal education with specialized character design knowledge.

  • Professionals in Animation and Illustration: Perfect for professionals in the animation and illustration industries looking to enhance their character design expertise.

  • Hobbyists and Enthusiasts: Open to anyone who loves drawing and wants to explore the world of character design, regardless of their skill level.

  • Portfolio Development: Receive guidance on building a standout character design portfolio, essential for those pursuing a career in animation, illustration, or related fields.

 
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