Senior Thesis 2024
Fantasy Forest 3D Animation
Senior Thesis
2024
Lindsay Pugliese
The Weight of Seasons
In this 2 minute animation, we follow the gentle journey of a small, hardworking bear as he navigates the rhythms of life throughout the changing seasons. In spring, the bear is full of energy, tending to his daily chores and enjoying his favorite hobbies under the warm sun.
Summer brings even more joy as his productivity peaks, but as autumn approaches, the days grow shorter and the bear’s motivation begins to fade. With the onset of winter, the bear finds himself exhausted and struggling to keep up, ultimately reaching a point of burnout.
At his lowest moment, the bear discovers the importance of rest and self-care. Embracing the natural cycle of the seasons, he retreats into a deep, restorative winter nap. Through this journey, the bear learns that sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is take time to recharge.
This animation is a heartwarming story about finding balance in life and listening to your own needs, set against the beautiful backdrop of nature's changing seasons.
Artist Bio
Meet Lindsay
Lindsay is a senior at the University of Connecticut, pursuing a BFA in Digital Media and Design with a concentration in 3D Animation. With a keen interest in the animation pipeline and storytelling, she aspires to work in production management in the future. Currently, she serves as the Director of the Communications Team at UConn’s Innovation Zone, where she leads a student team in creating engaging social media content and promotional materials for the program. In addition to her leadership role, Lindsay actively explores her passion for animation through various projects, drawing inspiration from her experiences and the natural beauty of her hometown. She is dedicated to honing her craft and collaborating with others to bring stories to life in innovative ways.
Artist Statement
Why?
Growing up surrounded by nature in her hometown of Sparta, New Jersey, Lindsay eagerly anticipates each spring as bears emerge from hibernation and cubs climb the trees in her backyard. This deep connection to the natural world inspires her work, as she seeks to capture the familiarity of home through her animation. Lindsay is excited to share her creations, which reflect not only her personal experiences but also her belief in the power of storytelling to evoke emotion and connect us to our surroundings. By blending her artistic vision with her love for nature, she aims to transport viewers into a world that emphasizes the warmth of home and nostalgia, which contrasts with the fast-paced, often detached nature of digital interactions. Her art invites us to reorient by reconnecting with the natural world, fostering deeper emotional connections and encouraging us to slow down and reflect on the things that bring us comfort and joy.
Semester 1 Progress
Semester 1 Progress
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