Applicants for the “Art and Design” Specialization should demonstrate originality, creative flexibility and persistance, perceptiveness, visual and narrative imaginativeness, sensitivity to formal, compositional, and dramaturgical structures, the ability to independently and systematically develop meaningful, novel design concepts and the ability to use animation and game related techniques and technologies for their realization. Moreover applicants should demonstrate a strong motivation for the field of study and a vivid, critical interest in animation and game culture and technology.
A portfolio for the “Art and Design” Specialization could for example include the following types of work samples:
- storyboards and animatics
- stop motion animations, 2 D animations or 3-D animations
- board game prototypes and digital game or game level prototypes
- concepts and prototypes for VR and AR experiences
- environment concept art , digital environment assets and digital environments for animations or games
- character designs and 3d character models for animations or games
- design concepts and 3D models for other animation and game related elements
A single work sample can consist of several related items. So you should rather consider the 3 work samples as three projects which are represented through a choice of significant elements. This will allow you to better demonstrate your artistic, methodological and technological approach.
FAQs about the Digital Portfolio
May I submit more than 3 work samples in my Digital Portfolio?
You must stick to 3 work samples. However, a single work sample can consist of several related items. So you should rather consider the 3 work samples as three projects which are represented through a choice of significant elements. This will allow you to better demonstrate your artistic, methodological and technological approach. So for example:
- if you submit character designs, you should include several concepts (variations, poses, facial expressions, turnarounds etc.) and not just one single drawing or final result.
- if you submit a board game, digital game level or digital game prototype, you should add elements which illustrate your game design concept, such as gameplay diagrams, narrative design concepts, or concept art
- if you submit 3D models, present them from all sides (rendered images or or turntable video). Include visuals which illustrate your conceptual approach as well as wireframe representations of the finished models
In which form should I submit digital games, game levels or game prototypes?
If you submit a digital game prototype, game level or finished video game, include a gameplay video as well as a playable build.
In which form should I submit digital 3D Models?
You should present the 3D models from all sides or in form of rendered images or in form of a turntable video. It is advisable to add some conceptual sketches and a screenshot of the 3D mesh to show your approach.
Can I submit written work such as stories, scripts or game design concepts?
Avoid submitting work samples which only consist of written descriptions. your should always include some visuals. For example if you submit a game design concept you should illustrate the idea with visual elements auch as character designs, environment concepts, level design sketches, game diagrams etc.
Can I apply for both specializations at the same time?
No
FAQs about the Presence Exam
I live outside of Germany and can't come to the Presence Exam. What can I do?
If you live outside of Germany and can’t come to the Campus you are entitled to apply for Distance Exam instead of Presence Exam. In order to qualify you must submit a digital copy of an ID-Document and and a digital copy of a proof of residency (e.g. resident registration card, utility bill showing your name or a rental confirmation from your landlord).
PLEASE NOTE: a vacation is not considered a valid reason to apply for Distance Exam.
How long is the interview?
The interview has a duration of ca. 10-15 minutes. You can choose whether the interview will be carried out in English or German. If you choose German the Examiners will still ask some questions in English.
What kind of assignments can I expect in the Presence Exam?
The Presence Examination involves a problem solving test in the area of visual-spatial and systematic thinking. Moreover you must complete several practical creative assignments such as, for example, visual storytelling, animation and game conceptualization, character or spatial design assignments.
