The Fundamentals of Animation

Book excerpt: The Fundamentals of Animation by Paul Wells offers an illustrated and visually stimulating introduction to the key elements of animation. It discusses the key principles and processes involved in animation, exploring the entirety of the creative process from finding and researching a concept, through the preparation and techniques used, to the execution of the work. Each stage is presented in an engaging visual style, accompanied by examples and analysis of contemporary student and commercial animation. The book also discusses the links between animation and the styles and narratives of other areas of popular culture, aligning theory and ideas to practical advice. It includes a section for aspiring animators examining career paths, portfolios and the structure of the creative industries.