Make & Motion runs Hollywood Stop Motion Studio, where students turn their own ideas into animated films. They use LEGO, greenscreens and handmade sets, and learn storytelling and the filmmaking process as they plan, build, animate and bring their scenes to life.
Stop motion turns still photographs into movement. Students sketch storyboards, build a miniature world from LEGO characters and props, animate it frame by frame, then add sound, green screen work and simple editing. The 8-week core program starts with the basics of animation, storyboarding and greenscreen and sound. Once storyboards are approved, later sessions are guided production time. It ends with students sharing their films with their peers.
It is taught in person by founder and lead instructor Jackson Popiel, whose background includes animation, visual effects and previs. His site says he has served the Westchester and Long Island areas as an independent after-school provider for over a year.
Right now Make & Motion delivers its programs through schools and youth organizations. It is developing direct-registration options in Westchester and on Long Island. Questions? Call (914) 315-9268 or email info@makeandmotion.org.
Questions parents ask
What grades is Hollywood Stop Motion Studio for?
The program is primarily for grades 2–6.
How long is the program?
The core program runs 8 weeks. Early sessions cover animation basics, storyboarding and greenscreen and sound. After storyboards are approved, later sessions are guided production time, and the program ends with students sharing their films with their peers.
Where does Make & Motion teach?
Make & Motion teaches in person and serves the Westchester and Long Island areas. It currently delivers programs through schools and youth organizations and is developing direct-registration options. Contact the studio for locations.
How do I register?
The studio’s Register page says registration opens at the beginning of October. Contact info@makeandmotion.org or (914) 315-9268 with questions.
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