Prof. Michael Coldewey is one of the true pioneers of German computer animation. As founder of the VFX studio TRIXTER, he helped shape some of the most unforgettable visual worlds in modern film. Now, at mdh, he's passing that magic on — teaching students how observation, design, and technology come together to create digital worlds that feel completely real.

His journey started in classical animation. After earning his diploma in graphic design, he worked as an in-between artist, storyboard artist, and animation supervisor — and it wasn't long before he found himself captivated by a brand-new frontier: computer animation.

In 1995, together with producer Eberhard Junkersdorf, he co-founded Munich Animation Film. Just three years later, in 1998, he took an even bigger leap and founded TRIXTER — a VFX studio that would go on to make waves around the world.

And what a legacy TRIXTER has built. Its visual effects have brought some of the biggest blockbusters to life — think Avengers, Iron Man, Captain America, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Spider-Man: Homecoming, and Captain Marvel.

But here's what makes Prof. Coldewey different: for him, it was never really about the software. What matters most is the ability to truly observe — to understand shape, space, and form — and turn that understanding into a world that feels believable. And in an age where AI is reshaping how things get made, that human instinct matters more than ever.

His story is proof of what's possible when creative vision, cinematic instinct, and technical mastery come together — and now, he's sharing that story with you.

"You don't have to know how to draw. But it helps enormously to understand the world. Once you understand it, you can recombine its elements to create something new, again and again."

Learn Figure Drawing With Prof. Michael Coldewey

Ever dreamed of drawing characters that feel alive — building the foundation for a career in animation, concept art, or VFX? Here's your chance to learn it straight from a legend of the craft.

In our free figure drawing workshops at mdh, Michael Coldewey shows you how careful observation, proportion, and spatial thinking come together to create characters and digital worlds you actually believe in. Whether you're sharpening skills you already have or picking up a pencil for the first time — everyone's welcome. 

Spots are limited, so sign up for the workshop now!

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