The course objectives ask that we merge animation theory and practice.
We will respond through three projects that guide the development of such a practice. The learning approach of this course is informed by ‘digital kung fu.’ This approach draws on the ancient body practice that adjoins theory and practice through learning that relies on repetitive doing. Its motto follows: “What is said may not be heard. What is shown may be forgotten. What is undertaken is understood.” By applying such an approach to digital practice, the philosophical fundament of animation and its mode of creation merge through the notion of time. Can we imagine that when we ‘make’ animation, we ‘make’ time? We will look at how time may be endemic to the making and understanding of animation through three notions: being, becoming and being in becoming. Within the next weeks, we will examine this trajectory further through the philosophy of time and the practice of animation.
However, different to most approaches to ‘kung fu,’ this course does not divide student from master. We are all students, because with time all masters get mastered. Time might not only be our biggest ally in making animation, but also our biggest enemy. Hence, spend your time wisely. For this course this means to animate!
- best, Helmut
