list a brief timeline of animation between 1872 and 1928.

Daniel Parker

2 min read

·

22-02-2025

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Introduction:

The period between 1872 and 1928 witnessed the birth and explosive growth of animation, transforming from simple experiments to the foundational techniques we recognize today. This timeline highlights key milestones and influential figures in this crucial formative era of animation history. This period saw the development from simple moving images to the first fully realized animated cartoons.

Early Experiments and the Dawn of Animation (1872-1900):

• 1872: Eadweard Muybridge's groundbreaking photographic studies of motion capture the sequential phases of movement, laying the groundwork for understanding how to create the illusion of movement in images. This is a pivotal moment for the future of animation. These studies were instrumental in understanding how to depict movement in a series of still images.

• 1880s-1890s: Various inventors experiment with moving image devices like the zoetrope and praxinoscope. These devices enhanced the viewing experience of sequential images, creating a more fluid sense of motion. This helped the development of animation techniques.

• 1890s: Émile Reynaud's Théâtre Optique, a public animation projector, showcased projected animated films to audiences. Reynaud's creation was an important step towards making animation accessible to a larger audience. He created elaborate, hand-drawn animations.

The Birth of Cell Animation and Early Film (1900-1910):

• Early 1900s: Animators begin experimenting with techniques to simplify the production process. This era introduced early forms of cell animation, improving efficiency and consistency in creating animated films.

• 1906: J. Stuart Blackton's Humorous Phases of Funny Faces is widely considered one of the first examples of a stop-motion animation film. Blackton directly drew on the camera's surface, marking a pivotal moment in animation's history.

• 1908: Winsor McCay's Gertie the Dinosaur debuts, showcasing more sophisticated animation techniques and character development. McCay’s animation significantly improved upon previous efforts, creating a more dynamic and believable character. His innovative techniques were highly influential.

The Rise of Character Animation and Studios (1910-1928):

• 1910s-1920s: The animation industry begins to evolve, with studios emerging and competition leading to innovation. The development of animation studios led to more collaborative efforts and faster production times. This era was marked by significant technological advancement in animation as well.

• 1910s-1920s: Animators like Raoul Barré and Lotte Reiniger pioneer new techniques. Barré's work advanced the use of stop motion while Reiniger’s silhouette animation is a unique contribution to the art form. They both expanded the expressive capabilities of animation.

• 1928: Walt Disney's Steamboat Willie is released, marking a turning point with the first fully synchronized sound cartoon. Steamboat Willie revolutionized animation and established Disney as a leading figure in the industry. The impact of sound on animation was enormous.

Conclusion:

The period from 1872 to 1928 was a time of incredible experimentation and innovation in animation. From early experiments with motion studies to the emergence of established animation studios and synchronized sound, this era laid the groundwork for the animation industry we know today. The journey from simple moving images to the sophisticated cartoons of the late 1920s was a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of pioneering animators. The techniques developed during this era continue to influence animation styles and production methods even today.