About

My taught subjects include stop motion animation, animation project development and production and experimental stop motion. In 2013 my first book, Stop Motion Animation, was published by Barrons educational books and translated into six different languages for sale around the world. My research areas include production temporality, animation technique, idea genesis and animation method identification.

I previously worked as a studio animator and compositor for many years, co-founding two animation studios in Bristol before working as a freelance animator and project facilitator. During my time as a freelancer, I worked on over 150 projects covering animation, live action, online production and media distribution. I also work as a voice artist on short, award winning animations.

Since working at Sheffield Hallam University, I have realised a hidden passion for teaching animation, for helping others grow their understanding and development of this creative art form. I am honoured to have been one of the recipients of the Sheffield Hallam University Inspirational Teaching award in 2017 as well as being recipient of the college level award in 2012, 2018 and 2021.

Specialist areas of interest

Pre-Production for Animation
Stop Motion Animation
Visual Techniques within Animation
Post-Production for Animation and Animation Project Management

Melvyn also enjoys studying idea genesis, technique identification and enjoying the freedom of his motorbike.

Teaching

Department of Media Arts and Communication

College of Social Sciences and Arts

Animation and Digital Media Production

BA (Honours) Animation

Modules taught: 

Stop motion animation foundation
Showreel project
Major animation project
Stop motion experimental animation

Publications