Design Camp for ages 11 to 14: Stop Motion with Clay

In this immersive workshop, young people will learn cinematic techniques and bring miniature worlds to life through playful, hands-on filmmaking.

Participants will explore the fundamentals of stop motion animation, taking inspiration from Wes Anderson's iconic film 'Isle of Dogs' as a reference, and learn how to plan narratives, develop characters, and construct miniature environments.

The workshop focuses on design thinking and collaborative storytelling, helping participants develop creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. No previous experience is required, just curiosity and imagination.

By the end of the session, each participant will take home their character sketches, handmade clay models, and a stop-motion short film of their own.

Learning outcomes:

• Understand the basics of stop motion

• Develop storytelling skills

• Practice hands-on model making

• Making clay puppets

• Producing a stop motion film

Please note:

• This workshop will include a short visit to the Wes Anderson: The Archives exhibition

• This workshop is suitable for young people aged 11–14. All participants must be dropped off and picked up by an adult. You can find additional information in the sections below

• Capacity is limited. We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment

• All equipment and materials will be provided, but participants will need to bring a packed lunch

• All participants must be dropped off and picked up by a parent, carer or responsible adult. A member of our team will greet you on arrival and sign participants in

• We ask all bookers to provide an emergency contact name and number. Please ensure this person is available for the duration of the session

• The workshop content is tailored to a specific age group. Participants outside the advertised age range may find the session less accessible or engaging

• If there’s anything we can do to support your child’s participation, whether around mobility, communication, sensory processing, emotional regulation or anything else, you’re welcome to let us know at checkout. Sharing access needs is entirely optional and helps us prepare the session in the most inclusive way

• This session has capacity for up to 20 participants, led by one or two facilitators, with a typical adult-to-child ratio of 1:10

• If your child receives additional support in their education setting, you are welcome to bring a supporting adult with them at no extra cost. Please note that we are not able to provide one-to-one support ourselves

• If you have any questions or want to discuss specific access requirements, please get in touch with the team at DMAcademy@designmuseum.org

Background image: © Animating Education