Animated Life of Sounds: reversing the logic of sound in animation at a workshop with european experts

24-03-2026

From March 31 to April 2, EHU’s Department of Humanities and Arts will host an intensive workshop titled “The Animated Life of Sounds.” University students will have a rare chance to work at a professional studio pace under the mentorship of industry veterans: composer Andrea Martignoni (Italy) and producer Michael Margulis (Germany/Ukraine).

In contemporary animation, sound is often perceived merely as a supplement to the visuals. This workshop proposes a radical shift in perspective: participants will experiment with creating animation where sound serves as the primary starting point and dictates visual solutions. Over three days, students will navigate the entire process – from recording ambient sounds to transforming them into visuals using stop-motion, digital, or hand-drawn animation techniques.

Bridging education and industry

A key feature of the intensive is its direct link to the professional world. Students will gain insight into the inner workings of KAPI Animation studio through the case study of “The City of Happy Boys.” This project exemplifies a poetic approach to animation where sound acts as the main driver of the narrative.

For participants, this is not just a practical exercise but a potential career springboard. The author of the most expressive work will have the opportunity to join the creative team behind “The City of Happy Boys,” a project currently in development by the mentors.

About the mentors

The workshop experts bring extensive experience from major international platforms to EHU:

Andrea Martignoni (Italy) – composer, sound designer, and artistic director of the ANIMAPHIX festival. Andrea specializes in soundscape research and has authored soundtracks for numerous global animation hits.
Michael Margulis (Germany/Ukraine) – producer at KAPI Animation. Michael will share his expertise in international production, explaining how a “raw” idea is transformed into a product tailored for the global market.

How to participate

The workshop is open to the EHU community in two formats:

Participants: students of the “Visual Design” and “Game Art” programs (BA & MA). Previous animation skills are required.
Audience Members: students and faculty from all departments are invited to attend the lecture portions and the final discussion.

Venue: EHU Campus (Savanorių Ave. 28), Room 217.

Registration: please find the details and register via the link. The deadline is March 30, 3:00 PM (or until all spots are filled).

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