Introduction to Animation
The word 'animation' often conjures up images of beloved cartoon characters, such as Felix the Cat and Mickey Mouse. However, the history of animation is far more diverse and complex, spanning over a century and encompassing a wide range of techniques and styles. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is currently showcasing this rich history in its new exhibition, It's Alive!, which explores 100 years of animation history.
The exhibition is curated by Ron Magliozzi, who has worked at MoMA for nearly 50 years and has been instrumental in acquiring many of the animation collections on display. Magliozzi's goal is to showcase the diversity and creativity of animation, from its early beginnings to the present day. The exhibition features a range of films and artists, including Felix the Cat, Jerome Hill, and Jane Aaron, among others.
The Evolution of Animation
The history of animation can be broadly divided into two periods: the pre-war era, which saw the rise of character-based films, and the post-war era, which saw a shift towards more experimental and artistic works. According to Magliozzi, the turning point came in 1946, when the visionary director John Hubley released a manifesto titled 'Animation Warrants a New Language'. This manifesto marked a significant shift in the development of animation, as artists began to push the boundaries of the medium and explore new techniques and styles.
The post-war era saw the emergence of a new generation of animators, who were influenced by the avant-garde and experimental art movements of the time. Artists such as Jerome Hill and Jane Aaron began to create more abstract and surreal works, which explored the possibilities of animation as an art form. Hill's film, 'The Sand Castle', is a prime example of this, featuring a dreamlike sequence of stop-motion animation that is both beautiful and unsettling.
The Exhibition
The It's Alive! exhibition is a treasure trove of animation history, featuring over 20 films and a range of artifacts and artworks. The exhibition is divided into two main sections: a black-and-white gallery featuring pre-war characters, such as Felix the Cat and Gertie the Dinosaur, and a color gallery featuring post-war works, such as Hill's 'The Sand Castle' and Aaron's animations for Sesame Street. The exhibition also includes a range of interactive displays and screenings, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the artwork.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is the collection of animations created by Jane Aaron for Sesame Street. Aaron's work is a testament to the power of animation to educate and entertain, and her animations of famous artists and artworks, such as Vincent Van Gogh and Picasso's 'Girl Before a Mirror', are both beautiful and informative. The exhibition also features a range of other artworks, including stop-motion animations, cel animations, and rotoscope works, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the medium.
Conclusion
The It's Alive! exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in animation, film history, or art. The exhibition provides a unique glimpse into the evolution of animation, from its early beginnings to the present day, and showcases the creativity and diversity of the medium. With its range of interactive displays, screenings, and artworks, the exhibition is sure to delight visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
As Magliozzi notes, the exhibition is not just about showcasing the history of animation, but also about highlighting the artistry and creativity of the medium. The exhibition is a testament to the power of animation to inspire and educate, and is a must-see for anyone looking to explore the world of animation.