Animation, and animation classes, are hugely popular with teenagers these days: bringing digital artwork to life on the screen can be riveting! Deciding which animation software to use, however, can be tough – especially if you are on a budget. To help you, we’ve assembled a list of some of the best free and open-source animation software tools available to digital artists today.
OpenToonz – 2D Animation Software
Not only is OpenToonz one of the best 2D animation software available, it has also been used by famous animation studios like Studio Ghibli and Rough Draft Studios. OnlyToonz is user friendly and great for animation students just starting out, but you may need to read through their manual to truly master its features.
https://opentoonz.github.io/e/
Synfig – Vector based 2D Animation Software
Synfig is also a 2D animation program. Unlike OpenToonz, Synfig is a vector-based program that comes with a few more added plug-ins which reduce the time an artist must spend animating. The interface is user friendly, great for any beginner and like OpenToonz, this software is completely free!
Pencil2D – 2D Animation Software
Compared to OpenToonz and Synfig, Pencil2D’s interface is even more simplistic which makes it very user-friendly, especially for the novice animator. Pencil2D works on all platforms and unlike most opensource software, is frequently updated. If you are new to the animation world, this is probably the best open source animation software to choose.
Blender – 2D & 3D Animation Software
For more advanced animators, this free program comes highly recommended. With Blender, you can create both 2D and 3D animations, work with numerous visual effects and create just about anything! The interface is slightly more complex than a program like OpenToonz and it may time to master. However, the end results are phenomenal – especially for a program that is absolutely free!
Pixilart.com – Web based Animation Software
This is a great option for animators who either can’t or do not want to download software. Pixilart has a simple interface, easy to use tools and a variety of add-ons that make creating a simple animation very easy. Like the other options above, it’s open source, and completely free.
Aaron Alviano is a professional artist who has been an arts instructor for Centauri Arts for 20 years, specializing in Digital Art, Animation, Video Game Art, Drawing, Painting and Photography. Be sure to check out his programs in Digital and Fine Art this semester at Centauri Arts!
https://www.centauriarts.com/academy/toronto/fine-art-photography-classes-for-teens/
Centauri Arts
Bloor West Village, Toronto
