Testimonial:

I am writing as a classroom teacher at Monterey Elementary School in Victoria BC. Earlier is 2003, my Grade 5 class had the wonderful experience of a visit from clay animation artist Paul Moldovanos and Ali Foord from the Greater Victoria Film Commission who provided the learning resources for an extra exciting learning event, Clay Animation Day.

My class of thirty-two students was completely engaged by Paul Moldovanos' presentation. In the course of one afternoon he not only demonstrated for the children the basics of clay animation but inspired and excited them to create their own clay characters. Mr. Moldovanos and Ms. Foord brought animation clay and tools for working the clay for each child in the classroom. They also brought posters, video examples of animations and other learning materials to stimulate the imaginations and creativity of the students. These practical helped greatly aided the learning experience. Mr. Moldovanos also brought to the class his excitement, creativity and enthusiasm. It was infectious!

As well as introducing the field of animation and its potential, Clay Animation Day helped the children realize they had the creative ability to make their own stories come alive. Clay Animation Day added a great deal to our Art curriculum and to the children's understanding of media. The day also widened the children's understanding of possible types of work and careers in the future. I'm sure many of the students will remember and be inspired by the generous visit to our class.

As a testament to the success of the Clay Animation Day, rather than sending a typical thank you letter, the children voted to thank Mr. Moldovanos by putting his creative lead into practice. The class worked to thanks Mr. Moldovanos by creating and sending him their own drawings and art work.

I am grateful to the Victoria Film Commission and its representative, Ali Foord, for its generous interest in our school and our class. Clay Animation Day was an event that all of us will remember.

Steven Toleikis B.Sc., Dip. Ed., M.A. Teacher, Monterey Elementary, Victoria School District #61