Acclaimed 3D Artist William Vaughan to Teach at The DAVE School

ORLANDO, Fla.–New students pursuing their dreams of a career in animation at The DAVE School this January will be taught by award-winning artist, writer and director William Vaughan.

Vaughan’s career of nearly two decades includes work for video games, toymakers, national advertising campaigns and animated films such as Pixar Animation Studios’ recent short “Partly Cloudy”. In print, he has been published in major computer graphics magazines and contributed to 17 books.

He will share his expertise with students in The DAVE School’s Block 01 course, which covers 3D modeling, lighting, texturing and demo reel presentation techniques. The DAVE School, located on the backlot of Universal Studios Florida in Orlando, is one of the most advanced 3D and visual effects training institutions serving the animation and film industries. Recent graduates’ work can be seen in movies that include “Thor”, “The Green Lantern” and “Captain America”.

For more than six years, Vaughan played a major role in the development of NewTek’s LightWave 3D, one of the leading 3D applications used in the CG industry. He authored more than 300 tutorials and instructional videos on topics ranging from modeling and animation to dynamics and simulation. He is co-owner of Applehead Factory Design Studio, creators of the popular Teddy Scares and Tofu the Vegan Zombie franchises.

The term as guest instructor marks Vaughan’s return to The DAVE School. From 2008 to 2009, he worked as the school’s Director of Industry Relations. Prior to that, as one of the key faculty members, he assisted in the development of the school’s industry-acclaimed 3D curriculum.

“The school offers a unique blend of education and community that I’ve yet to experience anywhere else. Teaching is my passion and I love working with students who share my enthusiasm for animation,” Vaughan said.

Vaughan recently completed work on his latest book, “Digital Modeling” for New Riders Press, which is scheduled for release at the beginning of January, just days after Vaughan begins his guest term at The DAVE School.

“William is a rare talent. We’re very fortunate to have William with us this term,” said Steve Warner, Executive Director of The DAVE School. “He is both an exceptional artist and a gifted educator. His students will undoubtedly benefit from the depth of his experience across so many fields.”