STORY ARTS ACADEMY
THE ART OF STORY, FOR STORY ARTISTS
Learn to write and storyboard for films like a pro, from a pro.
Story Artist Foundations
15 Week Course | On-Demand
This is a beginner friendly boot camp for professional story artists, writers, filmmakers, and visual storytellers of all kinds to learn the methods used by leading feature animation studios to write and develop the stories of highly successful films full of memorable characters and worlds that go on to become worldwide franchises. This is a film-studio level education previously reserved for Story Artists already working for Sony, Pixar, Disney, and more – but now available to anyone direct from the source; 25 year story leader, Jed Diffenderfer - recently serving as a Head of Story for KPOP Demon Hunters!
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What is Story Arts Academy?
Learn more about Story Arts Academy, the instructor Jed Diffenderfer, and why this was created to open up training previously reserved for Story Artists at Feature Animation Studios, to everyone!
Learn MoreTESTIMONIALS
"Jed is teaching a class? Do yourself a huge favor and take it. Jed is one of the most inventive, adept, and thoughtful animation folks I’ve ever worked with, and elevates or deepens everything he touches. Getting a glimpse into the way he thinks about story is something you shouldn’t miss!“
Peter Ramsey
Writer, Director, Story Artist (Into the Spiderverse; The Mandalorian; Ahsoka)
"Jed’s resume is so STACKED, it boggles the mind. Probably makes sense he’s one of the most versatile story artists in the industry. He’s incredibly funny, and the comic tone in his work is a rare skill that you don’t find much- and is in high demand for big animated feature films. He’s a patient and understanding leader, and one of the most generous people I’ve ever known and worked with. If you’re looking for a teacher, you can’t do much better than Jed."
Daniel Chong
Creator, Director, Story Artist (Hoppers, We Bare Bears, Bolt)
"Jed has a wealth of story knowledge and experience from his many years at major studios, as well as an undying creative spirit that is truly infectious. Take his class, learn, and get inspired by one of the bright lights in the animation industry."
Trevor Jimenez
Writer, Director, Story Artist (Win or Lose, Weekends, Soul)
"Jed is a true powerhouse in the animation industry. Drama, comedy, action- whatever genre you can think of, he's a master of it all."
Jessie Wong
Writer, Story Artist (Centaurworld, KPOP Demon Hunters, Minecraft)
“Jed is one of the greatest visionaries in the Animation and Film Industry as a whole. Not only is Jed a master of his craft, his remarkable intuition, sense of humor and deep passion were undeniable factors for the success of many feature animated films he collaborated with. Jed's meticulous approach to camera, choreography, character and tone brings specificity that elevates any story from familiarity to brilliance.“
Leo Matsuda
Writer, Director, Story Artist (Hello Kitty, Inner Workings, Big Hero 6, Wreck-It Ralph)
"It always amazes me how creative and original Jed’s storytelling instincts are. He has a remarkable ability to develop characters and narratives from a solid foundation into something rich in nuance, emotional depth, and, most importantly, entertainment. And yes, he’s also brilliant at visualizing them. Learning from Jed isn't just inspiring, it's an absolute blast!"
Jony Chandra
Head of Story, Story Artist (Nimona, Peanuts Movie)
“Jed is an outstandingly creative thinker with a seemingly endless trove of ideas. His storytelling skills are excellent and he tops those with a fresh approach to comedy. Anyone taking his class will receive a good education indeed.“
Kent Beyda
Editor (KPOP Demon Hunters, Angry Birds, This is Spinal Tap)
"If you are looking to sharpen your storyboarding sword, look no further than Jed. A story telling master with years of experience! It’s never too late to strengthen your storytelling foundation! Learn from the best!"
Michael Yates
Writer, Director, Story Artist (Win or Lose, Soul, Toy Story 4)
"He is someone who truly cares—about his work, the stories he creates, and the growth of his students. Whether he's crafting a narrative or shaping his curriculum, that passion comes through in everything he does. Anyone fortunate enough to receive his feedback will find it invaluable. This class will be an eye-opening experience for anyone aspiring to become a storyteller or director."
Yoriko Ito
Production Designer, Art Director (Super Mario Bros Movie, Baba Yaga, Madagascar Franchise)
“Don’t hesitate to take a class with Jed. His storytelling is truly one of a kind, he effortlessly weaves heart and humor together in every frame. If you’re looking to go beyond surface level story and dive into what a scene really needs, Jed class is a rare chance.“
Scott Watanabe
Character Designer, Art Director, Visual Development (KPOP Demon Hunters, Raya and the Last Dragon, Zootopia)
"Not only does Jed know his stuff but he knows how to teach it. As a bonus, his enthusiasm for the craft is energizing."
Kurt Nellis
Senior Cinematic Designer (Destiny 1-2; Halo 3-Reach)
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FREE Resources!
Story Arts Resources is a free course of content that will be growing over the next year. Come learn some very easy tips for building a first/bare-bones storyboarding workflow on par with professionals at major studios, video and reading material vetting by industry experience, or just templates, actions, and other useful tools!
Check FREE Resources