Recently, a group of 20 DigiPen (Singapore) OIP students and DigiPen Europe-Bilbao students from the BFA in Digital Art and Animation program went on an educational visit to Basondo Wildlife Center for the third consecutive year. This excursion was part of their ART 200 animal anatomy course and was an important experience that allowed them to draw various animals at close range and put their theoretical understanding into practice through observing and sketching.
What is Basondo?
Basondo is a wildlife refuge and animal sanctuary located in the picturesque region of the Basque Country in Spain. The centre is dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of native and exotic species, offering a safe haven for animals in need. Basondo is known for its commitment to education and environmental awareness, providing guided tours and interactive experiences that allow visitors to learn about the diverse species it protects. The refuge is home to various animals, including birds of prey, mammals, reptiles, and other wildlife, all housed in enclosures carefully designed to mimic their natural habitats. Through its efforts, Basondo not only ensures the well-being of its resident animals but also fosters a greater appreciation for wildlife and conservation among the public.
Getting into nature
Laura Choueri, the teacher of the class, and a well-informed local guide from Basondo, accompanied the students and offered fun facts about the animals and their habitats. While on the trip, students were shown a variety of animals that included deer, alpacas, foxes, different types of birds like owls and parrots, wolves, snakes, raccoons, iguanas, and a lynx.
There were many memorable moments throughout the day, such as when the students were treated to a majestic display as a peacock approached to show off its colorful feathers. There was also an instance where a friendly deer came near the group, allowing for a unique up-close viewing experience.
After having lunch in the park, the students spent time sketching while they closely observed and interacted with the animals, learning firsthand about their musculature and exoskeleton structures. This hands-on experience was both special and valuable as it allowed students to comprehend animal anatomy by directly applying theoretical learning into real-world situations. These experiences are crucial when it comes to developing lifelike drawings and models and are necessary for jobs in creative fields such as animation and video game design.
The Basondo excursion is something that students look forward to every year, and it offered both DigiPen Europe-Bilbao and DigiPen (Singapore) OIP students a distinctive combination of learning and exploration. It showed the great importance of experiential learning, showcasing how going beyond the classroom can improve comprehension and spark innovation.