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Drawn to Life: 20 Golden Years of Disney Master Classes #1
Drawn to Life: 20 Golden Years of Disney Master Classes: Volume 1: The Walt Stanchfield Lectures
Drawn to Life is a two-volume collection of the legendary lectures of long-time Disney animator Walt Stanchfield. For over 20 years, Walt mentored a new generation of animators at the Walt Disney Studios and influenced such talented artists such as Tim Burton, Brad Bird, Glen Keane, and Andreas Deja. His writing and drawings have become must-have lessons for fine artists, film professionals, animators, and students looking for inspiration and essential training in drawing and the art of animation. Written by Walt Stanchfield (1919–2000), who began work for the Walt Disney Studios in the 1950s. His work can be seen in films such as Sleeping Beauty , The Jungle Book , 101 Dalmatians , and Peter Pan . Edited by Disney Legend and Oscar®-nominated producer Don Hahn, whose credits include the classic Beauty and the Beast , The Lion King , and Hunchback of Notre Dame .
416 pages, Paperback
First published March 23, 2009
198 people are currently reading
2762 people want to read
About the author
Walt Stanchfield
10 books18 followersWalt Stanchfield (1919–2000) was an American animator, writer and teacher. Stanchfield is known for work on a series of classic animated feature films at Walt Disney Studios and his mentoring of Disney animators.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 9, 2010
I’ve look at a lot of art books before and have never felt I’ve really learnt something like I have from these two volumes. So often publications contain plenty of pretty pictures, but little substance in terms of tutorial material and these are the complete opposite. Much of the drawings are extremely loose sketches rather than honed final pieces, but don’t dismiss them in a quick glance! Look closely and you will gain an awful lot from studying a master’s suggestions. It is very useful seeing Stanchfield’s suggestions for improvement on student’s attempts, both set side by side as you can draw some real tips on how to avoid common mistakes.
The author has the best experience in the subject of animation (where better to gain this from than working at Walt Disney?!) and it’s a privilege to feel you are receiving ‘personal’ tuition through the text. The fact that it hasn’t been edited to take away his manner of speech and presenting material gives this impression and I think it was a wise decision of the editors’. You even receive some life advice from Walt along the way, which is a definite bonus and gives refreshing breaks in the continuous focus of drawing. If there was anything bad to say about these volumes it is perhaps that it can feel a little repetitive if read in long periods, however, if that is the knowledge that needs to be conveyed, then that is the knowledge and what better to have plenty of referrals so it goes right in and is forgotten easily?! He does after all set out simple rules which can be utilised – sometimes art can feel like it’s all down to natural talent and keen observation, so it’s reassuring to have these to hold onto a keep in mind to increase the chance of producing a successful image.
The author thinks, drinks and sleeps drawing and his enthusiasm for it is infectious. He is passionate about animation, which so often gets overlooked in the art world (I confess to having slightly disregarding it myself!) and treats it seriously, in doing so commanding the same respect from the reader, but although the intention of these volumes are to teach motion pictures, it is equally useful for creating stills.
Of all the art books I have read, these are definitely keepers so I can dip into them forever more! I also like the references throughout to other titles, meaning there is further reading to continue with (I won’t say after finishing these due to my last statement :D ). Memorable, they will be the first to spring to mind when recommending reading to others. This said they are not for people wishing to learn how to produce a realistic, photographic style image for which other publications would be better.
In a closing Stanchfield styley statement: To be the best, learn from the best (of which Walt is definitely one of them)!
The author has the best experience in the subject of animation (where better to gain this from than working at Walt Disney?!) and it’s a privilege to feel you are receiving ‘personal’ tuition through the text. The fact that it hasn’t been edited to take away his manner of speech and presenting material gives this impression and I think it was a wise decision of the editors’. You even receive some life advice from Walt along the way, which is a definite bonus and gives refreshing breaks in the continuous focus of drawing. If there was anything bad to say about these volumes it is perhaps that it can feel a little repetitive if read in long periods, however, if that is the knowledge that needs to be conveyed, then that is the knowledge and what better to have plenty of referrals so it goes right in and is forgotten easily?! He does after all set out simple rules which can be utilised – sometimes art can feel like it’s all down to natural talent and keen observation, so it’s reassuring to have these to hold onto a keep in mind to increase the chance of producing a successful image.
The author thinks, drinks and sleeps drawing and his enthusiasm for it is infectious. He is passionate about animation, which so often gets overlooked in the art world (I confess to having slightly disregarding it myself!) and treats it seriously, in doing so commanding the same respect from the reader, but although the intention of these volumes are to teach motion pictures, it is equally useful for creating stills.
Of all the art books I have read, these are definitely keepers so I can dip into them forever more! I also like the references throughout to other titles, meaning there is further reading to continue with (I won’t say after finishing these due to my last statement :D ). Memorable, they will be the first to spring to mind when recommending reading to others. This said they are not for people wishing to learn how to produce a realistic, photographic style image for which other publications would be better.
In a closing Stanchfield styley statement: To be the best, learn from the best (of which Walt is definitely one of them)!
February 16, 2013
I call this book "Chicken Soup for the Artists Soul" because it isn't merely instructional, but one that offers a lot of abstract and soulful insight on the art of drawing itself. The book is aimed at animators and covers the 12 basic principles of animation, but any artist who works in storytelling would benefit.
This book completely changed my mindset as an artist, and was the first stepping stone to me approaching art more academically and thoughtfully. It introduced to me the concept of "gesture" and finding life in your drawings, and seeing past the nitty-gritty that too many young artists get caught up in. Things like "Folds are too hard." "Anatomy is really hard." and "Shading is super hard." Rather it shows the artist that with basic tools and an eye for action rather than detail, you can draw anything.
A good follow up to this book is Vilppu's Drawing Manual which explores the concept of gesture and building figures from volumes further.
If you're looking for a more instructional book on animation, check out The Animator's Survival Guide.
This book completely changed my mindset as an artist, and was the first stepping stone to me approaching art more academically and thoughtfully. It introduced to me the concept of "gesture" and finding life in your drawings, and seeing past the nitty-gritty that too many young artists get caught up in. Things like "Folds are too hard." "Anatomy is really hard." and "Shading is super hard." Rather it shows the artist that with basic tools and an eye for action rather than detail, you can draw anything.
A good follow up to this book is Vilppu's Drawing Manual which explores the concept of gesture and building figures from volumes further.
If you're looking for a more instructional book on animation, check out The Animator's Survival Guide.
June 25, 2012
This is the artist's way for animators and would be an invaluable resource for anyone on that path but there is such a wealth of wisdom within the pages of Drawn To Life, it's easy to get a lot out of Walt's observations and practices of being a good artist and committing yourself fully to that process that being an animator is not a prerequisite for enjoying his book. Walt's earnest enthusiasm and whole- hearted practicing the artist way is refreshing and motivating and I'm am excited to read his second volume of classes down the road.
"impression minus expression equals depression."
February 3, 2011
Probably the best guide to drawing philosophy I've ever read.
August 2, 2021
This is great and essencial to every 2D animator. Other types of animators might enjoy it also. Towards the end it gets repetitive and boring.
June 21, 2012
This book is simply amazing.
It's full of lecture notes from 20 years of the amazing Walt Stanchfield, who worked for Disney on many of their films, and even taught animators such as Glen Keane.
His use of humour in his notes is refreshing from an art book, and his rough drawings are amazing. He explains things in ways you've never considered before.. but they make so much sense!
This isn't a 'how to draw book', it won't explain how to draw specific characters or whatever, instead it explains how gestures specifically define a drawing and all the other elements surrounding drawing.
It's just amazing, I'll definitely be getting the second volume.
It's full of lecture notes from 20 years of the amazing Walt Stanchfield, who worked for Disney on many of their films, and even taught animators such as Glen Keane.
His use of humour in his notes is refreshing from an art book, and his rough drawings are amazing. He explains things in ways you've never considered before.. but they make so much sense!
This isn't a 'how to draw book', it won't explain how to draw specific characters or whatever, instead it explains how gestures specifically define a drawing and all the other elements surrounding drawing.
It's just amazing, I'll definitely be getting the second volume.
December 24, 2020
The following is a review for Drawn to Life Volumes One and Two
Come for the solid drawing advice, and stay for the New Age nonsense!
Drawn to Life is a two volume set compiled from notes by the instructor, Walt Stanchfield for a figure drawing class held at the Walt Disney Animation Studios from the 80s to the 1990s. Given that these books are compiled from class notes, the structure is sporadic, and sometimes feels repetitive.
Each chapter is short, consisting of a handout note for Walt Stanchfield's class of the day. He will start by discussing a topic, and occasionally, he'll break down a student's drawing, and improve upon it with an adjacent sketch. Sometimes he'll use an artist's drawing as an example of what to aim for. Occasionally Stanchfield will share his own work, or examples from retired Disney animators.
The drawing advice is for the most part excellent. He is constantly pushing his artists to use gesture drawing to communicate ideas effectively. To push the reality to accentuate certain ideas or feelings in a pose. He shows when you should exaggerate, when should you overlook 'correct' anatomy to communicate clearly to your audience.
Glen Keane writes on the blurb for Volume 2 "Sitting in Walt's class was as much a psychology course as it was a drawing class. One couldn't help walk away with your mind and soul a little more open than when you entered." See, Stanchfield isn't just an art instructor, he fancies himself to be something of a life coach. This is where I have to part ways with the book.
What's the problem with Stanchfield's advice? Thankfully, most of the book is still about drawing, but occasionally he'll reveal his approach to spirituality. Stanchfield's religious outlook emphasizes that positive thinking leads to a physical manifestation of prosperity in the real world. He outright states that he holds a New Thought perspective.
Now, there's nothing wrong with telling yourself positive affirmations. I'm fairly certain that research in modern psychology supports this. However, if you truly believe that your mindset directly controls your prosperity and health, then it's not much of a leap to suggest that sickness and misfortune are also a product of mindset. This has implications for everything from how we view modern medicine to how we treat other people who suffer misfortune. If you think that belief is the key ingredient for success, you will turn a blind eye to the social and economic factors that impede opportunity. Furthermore, if you only focus on 'good things' you're stuck in a childish mindset that refuses to examine the uncomfortable realities of living.
From what I understand New Thought claims to tap into the 'universal truths' shared in common from all of the major religions. But if the belief is centred around positive mindset leading to prosperity, then it neglects a central concept in theology from both eastern and western religions: the idea that suffering and death are inevitable parts of life. If you reject that truth, then you neglect compassion for your fellow human beings. It's quite possible that Stanchfield didn't think through the implications of his beliefs. But whatever the case may be, it's a destructive attitude to have, and thus a reason for me to detract a star from the book's rating.
Come for the solid drawing advice, and stay for the New Age nonsense!
Drawn to Life is a two volume set compiled from notes by the instructor, Walt Stanchfield for a figure drawing class held at the Walt Disney Animation Studios from the 80s to the 1990s. Given that these books are compiled from class notes, the structure is sporadic, and sometimes feels repetitive.
Each chapter is short, consisting of a handout note for Walt Stanchfield's class of the day. He will start by discussing a topic, and occasionally, he'll break down a student's drawing, and improve upon it with an adjacent sketch. Sometimes he'll use an artist's drawing as an example of what to aim for. Occasionally Stanchfield will share his own work, or examples from retired Disney animators.
The drawing advice is for the most part excellent. He is constantly pushing his artists to use gesture drawing to communicate ideas effectively. To push the reality to accentuate certain ideas or feelings in a pose. He shows when you should exaggerate, when should you overlook 'correct' anatomy to communicate clearly to your audience.
Glen Keane writes on the blurb for Volume 2 "Sitting in Walt's class was as much a psychology course as it was a drawing class. One couldn't help walk away with your mind and soul a little more open than when you entered." See, Stanchfield isn't just an art instructor, he fancies himself to be something of a life coach. This is where I have to part ways with the book.
What's the problem with Stanchfield's advice? Thankfully, most of the book is still about drawing, but occasionally he'll reveal his approach to spirituality. Stanchfield's religious outlook emphasizes that positive thinking leads to a physical manifestation of prosperity in the real world. He outright states that he holds a New Thought perspective.
Now, there's nothing wrong with telling yourself positive affirmations. I'm fairly certain that research in modern psychology supports this. However, if you truly believe that your mindset directly controls your prosperity and health, then it's not much of a leap to suggest that sickness and misfortune are also a product of mindset. This has implications for everything from how we view modern medicine to how we treat other people who suffer misfortune. If you think that belief is the key ingredient for success, you will turn a blind eye to the social and economic factors that impede opportunity. Furthermore, if you only focus on 'good things' you're stuck in a childish mindset that refuses to examine the uncomfortable realities of living.
From what I understand New Thought claims to tap into the 'universal truths' shared in common from all of the major religions. But if the belief is centred around positive mindset leading to prosperity, then it neglects a central concept in theology from both eastern and western religions: the idea that suffering and death are inevitable parts of life. If you reject that truth, then you neglect compassion for your fellow human beings. It's quite possible that Stanchfield didn't think through the implications of his beliefs. But whatever the case may be, it's a destructive attitude to have, and thus a reason for me to detract a star from the book's rating.
May 17, 2017
I can add this to my collection of good animation books that I own.
You don't learn this stuff in school.
I wish people talked about these sorts of things more instead of just how to use software for animation and barely touching on the basic 12 principles of animation, let alone go into depth about drawing for animation.
What's interesting is how much good artists and especially animators draw from life references. Walt Disney downplayed it, but really they basically shot every scene in live action before traditionally animating it. You realize animating at that level isn't really completely unreachable, at least I see that as a huge piece of the puzzle when you want to know how they do it. This book makes me want to do more life drawing.
You don't learn this stuff in school.
I wish people talked about these sorts of things more instead of just how to use software for animation and barely touching on the basic 12 principles of animation, let alone go into depth about drawing for animation.
What's interesting is how much good artists and especially animators draw from life references. Walt Disney downplayed it, but really they basically shot every scene in live action before traditionally animating it. You realize animating at that level isn't really completely unreachable, at least I see that as a huge piece of the puzzle when you want to know how they do it. This book makes me want to do more life drawing.
March 25, 2022
Wow. Almost twenty years out of art school, and I’m not in the animation industry, but boy do I wish I had read this sooner. Like high school. Even if you aren’t planning on going into animation, but do have a love for art and storytelling and want to strengthen your drawing this book is a must read. It took me awhile to get through it because there is so much in it.
It’s a compilation of handouts and so I think it works best in bite sizes anyways. So much to unpack here. I hope I get the time to go back through it.
So many art books out there but I would say this is too 3 easily. I’m sure the others based on his handouts are just as valuable.
It’s a compilation of handouts and so I think it works best in bite sizes anyways. So much to unpack here. I hope I get the time to go back through it.
So many art books out there but I would say this is too 3 easily. I’m sure the others based on his handouts are just as valuable.
November 25, 2017
Walt Stanchfield possessed a wealth of knowledge regarding animation, gesture and drawing. This book has shifted my perspective on how to sketch and draw gestures. I found "Drawn to Life" immensely helpful and, beyond that, I also felt like it allowed me to get to know Walt as a person. Walt seems like someone who was endlessly curious, eager to learn and who enjoyed every moment of life. I feel inspired after reading this book and if anyone has an interest in animation or drawing, particularly narrative drawing, this book is a must-read.
October 23, 2018
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ロレックスコピーなどのスーパーコピー品を扱っております。
世界のブランド腕時計スーパーコピーが大特価！
ロレックス時計コピー,スーパーコピー時計
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February 29, 2020
It took me two years to read this book, a lesson every day or two. In that time Stanchffield’s teachings have definitely reshaped my process for drawing the figure. I wish I could send this book back in time to myself before I went to art school. I would have gotten so much more out of figure drawing. I’m looking forward to diving in to volume 2!
January 20, 2025
As an animation student, I feel like this should be required reading! I sped through it because I wanted to read it before my next semester starts, but I will be rereading it at a slower pace to take notes and practice with my pencil. These lecture notes really feel like you’re taking a class with a Disney teacher. It’s full of great examples, entertaining snippets, and lots of lessons.
April 17, 2020
Such an amazing reference book! I learned so much. I feel like his tips for improvement are attainable for even amateur artists like myself. I appreciated the simple advice that extended even beyond art.
-draw, don’t copy.
-draw verbs, not nouns.
-don’t draw, gesture.
-draw, don’t copy.
-draw verbs, not nouns.
-don’t draw, gesture.
January 31, 2024
essential for any artist. his personal philosophy will change you and teach you to be accepting of the journey.
he is a master of gesture and imbuing life and thinking into your art. you will become conscious of what makes art successful
he is a master of gesture and imbuing life and thinking into your art. you will become conscious of what makes art successful
June 9, 2017
Just wow, I'm so happy that these notes were kept, collected and put into a sexy book format. Highly recommended (a must have) for Animators and illustrators
December 29, 2018
Very little amount of books out there cover the “behind the scenes” of drawing to make your characters look alive. This is THE book for it.
August 19, 2019
This is a great book. Effective writing skills. Just love it
January 12, 2020
I really learned a lot from this book. I will keep it around and continue to skim through it whenever I need a reminder about drawing techniques and an inspirational boost.
December 11, 2020
Delightful, inspiring, instructive- everything you'd want from a master animator. I consider it valuable for more than just animation tips; it's a philosophy of nurturing creativity in your life.
December 14, 2021
Full of easy-to-understand tips surrounded by loving encouragement. Thanks to all of you who worked to make this possible.
March 27, 2015
This is a book by artists, for artists. So why did I, a non-artist, love it? Because we are all doodlers at heart. Everybody scribbled until they grew up and stopped. Only age takes the artist out of the child. To read and see the tricks of early cell animation explained by a master, to a class of would-be masters, is a rare treat. You'll learn about motion, line, humor, expression, and life. And if you aren't dying to pick up a pencil halfway through, there's something wrong with you. I file this one in the "read something totally different, learn something totally new" category. It may require a bit of discipline to make it cover to cover. But this guy was the Einstein of hand-drawn Cartoons. Spending a half hour each day inside his head was pure joy to me. Might not be your cup of tea. But it sure was mine.
Read
February 4, 2010Many of the lectures are scribbled on notebook paper, revealing some of the real magic behind Disney magic. These lectures are from the early days when Ollie Johnston and Walt Stanchfield were exploring motion and theater, and essentially inventing modern animation. This one is a gem, with many basic tips that are vital for all graphic storytellers. The huge ILLUSION OF LIFE is another must-have in the studio, of course. This one is less of a coffee book, and more into nuts and bolts. Delicious stuff.
November 11, 2010
A wealth of information for artists especially in animation. Each chapter teaches or reiterates some valuable tidbit on adding more clarity and "life" into your drawings, how to be a better storyteller, and even how you should be thinking as an artist. I was only reading a chapter or two a day to soak in the information and apply it to my work. The smallest gestures, the angles that are formed by limbs, the way a line is put down on paper etc. all change the way a drawing can be perceived. Definitely a book to read and re-read again through the years. Now on to Volume 2.
August 29, 2014
There's really so much to learn from this book, even for people who don't find themselves walking the animator's path.
From philosophy, mindsets and attitudes to technical details and specific suggestions to tackle problems, you'll find this extremely detailed set of handouts to be both wonderful insight into the minds of the best storytellers in the film industry as well as a great instruction manual for aspiring artists such as myself.
From philosophy, mindsets and attitudes to technical details and specific suggestions to tackle problems, you'll find this extremely detailed set of handouts to be both wonderful insight into the minds of the best storytellers in the film industry as well as a great instruction manual for aspiring artists such as myself.
June 18, 2016
If you look through my book reviews you'll see I don't give away 5 star book reviews often. When I do there needs to be a darn good reason for it. I have to learn something profound or see things in a different way than I did before I opened it. If you are an illustrator or an animator, this two volume set needs to be not on your shelf, but on your drawing table... falling apart from use. You're welcome.
July 10, 2016
This is NOT a book intended to teach one how to draw in the classic Disney style, but rather a series of short reflections on aspects of the art that an intermediate draftsperson may consider. As such, it shouldn't be read in one sitting, but instead read in bits, probably before practice sessions, to focus on these aspects.
May 25, 2012
I am NOT an animator by any stretch but this is more than an animation book. Rather, this is a treatise on life, creativity and the nature of the artist. I am still unpacking the ideas contained within. a must read.
May 10, 2010
Very thorough, helpful tips for getting those figure-drawing techniques down. I'm definitely going to order Walt's second volume.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews