Animation History

This course is an introduction to the history and development of the field of animation. We will explore this subject from various perspectives: by chronology, from its prehistory before the invention of film to the present day; by form, including method and medium; by culture, comparing the US to Japan, Russia, Europe and others; by subject; and by personality, concentrating on the figures who have shaped the art form and continue to influence it through their example. Students are expected to bring an enthusiastic interest in the medium, and to devote serious effort to reading about, viewing, researching and discussing animation and the artists who have created it. During our examination of the artwork, we will pay special attention to the attitudes and influences of race, gender, technology, culture, and the correlation between art and industry. There are several writing assignments, reading questions, and quizzes throughout the quarter, in addition to a scaffolded final research paper.

010624