Meaning: Norman McLaren, a renowned Scottish-born animator and film director, is credited with this insightful quote: "Animation is not the art of drawings that move but the art of movements that are drawn." This quote encapsulates the essence of animation as a medium that goes beyond simply creating moving images; it is about capturing and expressing the essence of movement itself.

When McLaren speaks of "the art of movements that are drawn," he is emphasizing the significance of animators not merely focusing on static drawings that are set in motion but rather infusing their work with a deep understanding of how movement is portrayed and perceived. This concept underscores the technical and artistic skill required to convey a sense of motion, rhythm, and emotion through the drawn images in animation.

McLaren's assertion highlights the crucial role of movement in animation. It underscores the idea that the core of animation lies in the deliberate and thoughtful depiction of movement, whether it be the graceful dance of a character or the dynamic action of a chase scene. The animator must study and understand the intricacies of how things move in the real world and then translate that understanding into their drawings, creating a seamless illusion of movement on the screen.

Furthermore, McLaren's quote underscores the idea that animation is not merely a process of animating static images but rather a medium through which the animator breathes life into their drawings. It requires a deep understanding of timing, spacing, and dynamics to convincingly convey movement through a series of static images. This demands a high level of skill and creativity to effectively communicate the intended motion and emotion to the audience.

McLaren's own work exemplifies his philosophy on the art of animation. His experimental approach to animation often involved exploring the relationship between sound and movement, as well as embracing various techniques such as drawing directly on film stock to create mesmerizing visual sequences. His films, such as "Neighbours" and "Begone Dull Care," are celebrated for their innovative use of movement and imagery, showcasing his mastery in expressing the art of movements through animation.

In essence, McLaren's quote serves as a reminder to aspiring animators and enthusiasts that animation is not merely about making drawings come to life through motion but rather about understanding and harnessing the essence of movement itself. It challenges animators to delve deeper into the intricacies of movement, encouraging them to explore the nuances of motion and imbue their work with a profound understanding of how movements can be brought to life through the art of animation.

In conclusion, Norman McLaren's quote, "Animation is not the art of drawings that move but the art of movements that are drawn," encapsulates the fundamental concept that animators should strive to embody. It emphasizes the essence of movement as the core of animation, urging artists to go beyond mere motion and instead focus on the artful portrayal of movements through their drawings. This perspective serves as an enduring guiding principle for animators, reminding them of the depth and complexity involved in creating compelling and evocative animated sequences.