Meaning: Don Bluth, a renowned animator and filmmaker, expresses a significant concern in this quote about the potential negative impact when business executives who lack an understanding of animation are involved in making artistic decisions. This quote highlights the importance of having a deep understanding of the art form when making decisions that can significantly impact the outcome of an animated project.

Animation is a unique art form that requires a specific skill set and understanding of its nuances. Unlike live-action filmmaking, animation involves the creation of characters, settings, and entire worlds from scratch. It requires a thorough understanding of movement, timing, and visual storytelling. Without this understanding, the artistic integrity of the animation can be compromised.

When business executives, who may excel in other areas of expertise, are tasked with making artistic decisions in the animation industry without a fundamental understanding of the medium, it can lead to a disconnect between the creative vision and the final product. This can result in creative decisions that are not in line with the principles of animation, leading to a lack of authenticity and impact in the final work.

One of the key issues that can arise when business executives without animation expertise make artistic decisions is a lack of appreciation for the complexities of the animation process. Animation involves a series of intricate steps, including storyboarding, character design, layout, keyframing, in-betweening, and post-production. Each of these stages requires a deep understanding of animation principles and techniques to ensure that the final product is cohesive and visually compelling.

Furthermore, without a solid understanding of animation, business executives may not fully grasp the creative vision of the animators and artists. This can lead to miscommunication and a lack of alignment between the business objectives and the artistic aspirations of the project. The result can be a diluted or compromised artistic vision that fails to resonate with the intended audience.

Additionally, the quote by Don Bluth suggests that when business executives lacking animation expertise are at the helm of artistic decisions, it can lead to a disconnect between the creative and commercial aspects of the project. While it is essential for animated projects to be financially viable, a purely business-driven approach to artistic decisions can stifle innovation and creative expression. It is crucial for artistic decisions to be informed by a deep understanding of animation principles and a genuine appreciation for the art form.

In conclusion, Don Bluth's quote underscores the importance of having individuals with a solid understanding of animation involved in making artistic decisions within the industry. It serves as a reminder of the need for a harmonious balance between artistic integrity and commercial considerations in the world of animation. When business executives lack an understanding of animation, it is crucial for them to collaborate closely with experienced animators and artists to ensure that the artistic vision is preserved and brought to life in a way that resonates with audiences.