Ragged Claws Network

Coming in June 2012 from Focal Press:

Here’s how the publisher describes the book:

Animation doesn’t come with instructions; Rowland B. Wilson demanded guidelines. Trade Secrets [256 pages; 8.5 x 10.875 inches; ISBN-10: 0240817346; ISBN-13: 978-0240817347] offers a never before published peek into the personal journals of Rowland B. Wilson (1930-2005), a legend in the world of Cartooning, Advertising, Illustration and Animation. Trade Secrets is a compendium of tips and tricks, philosophies and techniques garnered over a lifetime of professional animation and artistry. Study one-on-one with a mentor whose Walt Disney film credits include The Little Mermaid, Tarzan, Atlantis and Treasure Planet and apply a lifetime of professional creative tools for both traditional and digital workflows. These writings represent the quintessential refresher for fine artists and animation professionals, and it is a vital tutorial for students who are now poised to be part of another new generation in the art form. Have a seat and let an amiable respected mentor reveal his keys to success. Develop your professional creative toolset with a focus on foundational animation techniques with chapters on Caricature, Composition, Tone, Texture, Color, Reverse Negative, Rendition and Technical/Theories. Inspiration in your pocket; Trade Secrets includes a digitalpocket guide, filled with charts and diagrams as well as helpful tools and tips.

Legendary lessons from a master Disney animator, Playboy Illustrator and SchoolHouse Rock artist – collected for the first time ever. Trade Secrets is a unique, never before published compendium of tips, tricks, procedures and philosophies of an acclaimed artist, animator and illustrator.

Consistently create superior animations and illustrations with a 32 point checklist, a proven resource for digital and non digital workflows as well as professional projects and academic endeavors.

Develop your professional creative toolset with a focus on foundational animation techniques with chapters on Caricature, Composition, Tone, Texture, Color, Reverse Negative, Rendition and Technical/Theories.

And here’s a lovely example of Rowland B. Wilson’s cartoon art:

[CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE]

— Visit “Today’s Inspiration” for lots more! —

BONUS LINKS:

Temple of the Seven Golden Camels has Rowland Wilson’s handouts on Composition, Light and Shadow, and Color.

Also, like Today’s Inspiration, Michael Sporn Animation Splog has a very well-stocked archive of work by Rowland B. Wilson.