Animation is defined as the rapid display of a sequence of images to create an illusion of movement. Humans have long attempted to capture the phenomenon of movement in drawings, as early as Paleolithic cave paintings and Egyptian tomb art.
But it was not until the turn of the 20th century when filmmakers began to create actual moving animations, beginning with simple stick figures photographed drawing by drawing.These progressed to more elaborate creations that required a team of artists and painstaking attention to detail. Known as “cel” or hand-drawn animation, this was the process used for most animated films of the 20th century.
Animation B.C.is an exhibition from the ToonSeum of Pittsburgh celebrating the 100th anniversary of hand drawn and painted animation, with hands-on components for children and families. The exhibit will include approximately 100 pieces of original production art including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Spongebob, Bugs Bunny, Scooby Doo, Dora the Explorer, Yogi Bear and more.
From the very first animated character Gertie the Dinosaur to modern fan favorites such as Spongebob, Animation B.C. explores the animation process from start to finish and features original storyboards, music scores, animation cells and background sketches. Featured in the exhibit is the original rare Gertie the Dinosaur production sketch from 1914 by Windsor McCay, the father of animation.
Other items included in the exhibit are 85 14″ x 18″ cels, several large framed background cels and 3D pieces including replicas of early animation devices. A vintage animator’s desk used in Walt Disney’s Hyperion Studio circa 1930 complete with art supplies will be included.
Visitors will have the opportunity to step into a “Foley Art Studio” to create their cartoon sound effects, enjoy Saturday morning cartoons on a classic, retro-inspired TV, play at the Alice in Wonderland Tea Party, dress in super hero costumes, try their hand at drawing cels at a contemporary animator’s desk, as well as have photo-ops with cartoon characters.
QR codes will be utilized with some works, linking visitors to websites for more information and a scavenger hunt will keep all ages engaged.
The Museum has planned a series of events and activities to coordinate with the exhibition, including KidsArt Workshops for groups and a day-long program of activities on Wednesday, July 17, 2013. Call the Art Museum for details.
Regular gallery hours for the exhibit will be from 10 a.m – 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 1 – 4 p.m.Sundays. Admission to the Art Museum is always free, but donations are welcome.