Amy Melissa Bennett

Under the Patch

Role

Lead Designer | Visual Development | Animator | Editor

Context

A collaborative animated short exploring environmental impact through symbolic storytelling. Developed from concept to final animation, the piece uses character-driven narrative, visual design, and motion to create an emotionally engaging experience with a clear call to action.

Approach

The project was developed collaboratively from concept through final animation, with each of us contributing across the pipeline while leaning into our strengths. We established the narrative and storyboard together, creating a clear foundation for the piece.

I led the visual development, creating assets in Illustrator and handling the animation and final edit. I focused on pacing, movement, and transitions to shape the emotional arc and ensure the visuals supported the story’s tone and message.

Project Goals

To create an emotionally engaging animated short that raised awareness of environmental impact, using symbolic storytelling to guide the viewer from uncertainty to understanding and encourage meaningful action.

Project Highlights

• Co-developed original narrative, concept, and storyboard

• Created all visual assets and led animation and editing

• Used symbolic storytelling to communicate an environmental message

Process

Character exploration for emotional range and expression

Development of environmental elements to establish contrast and tension

Exploration of organic forms to build a cohesive underwater environment

Custom-designed assets to support animation and layered composition systems