Final animation GIF inspired by the song "Vinegar Hill"
Frame from final animation
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
This module explored the application of elements and principles to motion through the creation of a short stop motion animation. Based on a few instrumental music options, I visually interpreted a section of one song using animation techniques. This required an analysis of emotions and energies emitted by the chosen piece, as well as using shape grammar principles to convey this energy. Additionally, intentionally applying elements and principles was crucial in successfully communicating the song’s emotions. By using only grayscale elements, the module’s focus was on motion and shape without the distraction of color. Multiple iterations with different techniques were tested before creating a final short animation as a GIF.
STATEMENT:
In my animation, I prioritized pattern and materiality to create an animation based on “Vinegar Hill”, beginning eight seconds into the song. Using a scanner, wire, and recycled plastic, I created abstract shapes that convey the feeling of uncertainty in the song. I used the scanner to create high contrast images with distorted plastic textures, further emphasizing melancholy and confusing - yet soft - musical emotions.
Wire and plastic were used because of their malleable characteristics, emphasizing principles of movement and rhythm. These materials had the ability to form both shapes and lines depending on how they were moved, and both abilities were utilized to create circles, curved lines, and abstract round shapes. Throughout the animation, the warped plastic texture is repeated to stress the principle of pattern, aligning with the song’s rhythm. Additionally, the black background creates deep contrast in each frame, which draws attention to the movement occurring. Each of these elements and principles contribute to the dynamic and harmonious characteristics of the animation’s motion.
Exercise animation GIF
Group animation exercise GIF
REFLECTION:
I am proud of the risks I took in my final outcome, as most aspects of my animation were out of my comfort zone. At first, I was hesitant to use such untraditional materials and methods, I was not comfortable with using Photoshop as an editing and animation tool, and I initially wondered if the scanner’s photos would look too messy. However, in the end, I am glad I took these risks because they made my final animation unique and dynamic.
The abstract textures created with my chosen materials successfully conveyed my chosen principles of movement, rhythm, and pattern. The wire was difficult to work with, but the scanner method worked well with this material because it highlighted the smooth, shiny texture and made its jagged characteristics feel harmonious with the scanner’s warping effects.
In the future, I am interested in continuing to explore the realm of possibilities for scanner designs. With further practice, the abstract forms and textures generated could be more intentional and fluid. I feel the choppiness of the wavy plastic frames of my animation successfully conveyed principles like pattern and rhythm, but I could have emphasized this effect less if I had more time to play with this concept. I would like to learn more about methods for working with wire, as I feel this area could have been more refined. However, I am still happy with my animation because of the unique outcome and risks taken throughout its process.