ABSTRACT
We are in the midst of an animation renaissance, with digital techniques leading the way. Commercials, cartoons, videos, full-length films, interactive media, websites, and video games all make extensive use of digital animation. Beyond the entertainment industry, animations are being used to enhance corporate presentations, evidence in court (like recreations of car accidents) and for scientific visualizations. Animation’s unique methods and principles are well worth studying, as is the fascinating history of this field. From Thomas Edison, to Disney, to Miyazaki, to Pixar, and beyond, this medium continues to evolve and surprise. Effective animation requires the study of time-honored animation principles and procedures. It has its own visual vocabulary and physical principles. With study and practice, students can move beyond concepts, techniques, tips, and tricks into fluency in the language of animation.
