About the Course

Will Weston's most requested course is back. In The Art of the Thumbnail, Will teaches the compositional foundations that underlie every great image — through the lens of film, illustration, and fine art.

This isn't a course about making quick sketches. It's about learning to see — and building the visual vocabulary to compose with intention.

✓ Understand the compositional systems used by master filmmakers and illustrators

✓ Build a personal thumbnail library informed by film stills, paintings, and master drawings

✓ Develop the habit of thinking in thumbnails before committing to a final composition

What You'll Get

✓ 6 live sessions with Will Weston — each 1.5–2 hours

✓ Recordings of every session available for 8 weeks after the course ends

✓ Homework assignments (No personal feedback on homework)

✓ Access to a private community of fellow students

About Will Weston

Will Weston is a visual development artist, instructor, and mentor with over 25 years in the entertainment industry, including work at DreamWorks Animation. He is known for his rigorous, constructive approach to drawing — one that emphasizes structure, design, and understanding over copying or observation alone.

He has taught at the Concept Design Academy, Entertainment Design, and through Drawing America. His students have gone on to work at every major animation studio.

Schedule

Sessions are held on Saturdays, 12:00–1:30 pm ET, beginning September 19, 2026.

All sessions are recorded. Recordings are available for 8 weeks following the final session.