Founder & Mentor
Nikolay Mihaylov
"Animation is not just movement—it is emotion. I believe anyone can learn to tell stories with the right guidance and support."
Nikolay has worked since 1998 as an animator, visualizer, and director on architectural, TV, film, and web projects. He graduated in Animation from New Bulgarian University (NBU) in 2009 and has taught at several universities. He is also the creator of the mobile application Cinema Illustrated, reflecting his passion for cinema, visual storytelling, and modern digital tools. Nikolay strongly believes in the need for better, contemporary education and serves on the jury of Computer Space. He enjoys attending events focused on visual effects, web technologies, and art, and spends his free time playing tennis, bowling, and swimming.
Cinema Illustrated App
I am also the creator of Cinema Illustrated—an educational film dictionary app that helps you master cinema terminology. The app is included in our courses free of charge for all students.
Learn more at cinemaillustrated.appOur Philosophy
Mission
To provide accessible, high-quality education that competes with global standards.
Vision
A world where artists are recognized leaders in the global entertainment industry.
Values
Support, creativity and continuous growth. We are a community that helps each other.
We support the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Our work in creative education contributes to these global goals. Here is how we align with them.
We make professional training in drawing and animation accessible so that talent can develop regardless of background. Affordable workshops and clear learning paths help more people build skills that lead to decent livelihoods in the creative industries.
We deliver structured, industry-relevant courses that combine traditional art fundamentals with modern tools and AI. Our aim is quality education that equips learners with real skills—from idea and sketch to cinematic frame and short animation—so they can thrive in a changing creative economy.
Our programs prepare people for roles in animation, design, and visual storytelling. By teaching methodology used in studios and emphasizing teamwork and presentation, we support pathways to productive employment and sustainable economic participation in the creative sector.
We work with schools and diverse groups to bring the same high standard of creative education to more learners. Opening access to drawing and animation training helps reduce gaps in opportunity and supports inclusive growth in the arts and digital media.
We teach responsible use of AI and digital tools in the creative process. Our workshops stress thoughtful prompting, clear authorship, and ethical practice—so that the next generation of artists produces and consumes media in a sustainable and accountable way.