Meaning:
The quote by Marc Davis, an influential artist and animator, reflects the essence of understanding and bringing life to characters through animation. Davis, known for his work with The Walt Disney Company and his contributions to iconic characters like Snow White, Tinker Bell, and Maleficent, speaks to the deep connection between animators and the characters they bring to life.
When Davis mentions feeling something when animating, he is likely referring to the emotional and immersive experience of breathing life into a character. Animation is not merely a technical process; it is an art form that requires a profound understanding of the character's personality, emotions, and movements. Through the process of animating, the artist connects with the character on a deeper level, gaining insight into their essence and bringing out their three-dimensional nature.
The notion of turning a character around to understand its three-dimensionality is a fundamental concept in animation. By visualizing a character from different angles and perspectives, animators can grasp the nuances of its form and movement. This process allows them to infuse the character with depth and personality, transcending it from a two-dimensional drawing to a living, breathing entity on screen.
Davis's words also highlight the importance of empathy and empathy in animating characters. To truly understand a character, animators must empathize with their experiences, motivations, and emotions. This emotional connection enables them to imbue the character with authenticity and relatability, eliciting genuine emotional responses from the audience.
In the context of animation, the act of turning a character around extends beyond its physical form. It involves delving into the character's backstory, understanding their motivations, and exploring the intricacies of their personality. This holistic approach to character development is what distinguishes memorable animated characters from mere caricatures.
Moreover, Davis's quote underscores the transformative power of animation. Through the skillful manipulation of movement, expression, and body language, animators breathe life into characters, shaping them into compelling and dynamic entities. This transformative process is not just about creating motion; it is about infusing characters with soul and individuality, making them resonate with audiences on a profound level.
Davis's emphasis on understanding characters through animation also speaks to the art form's ability to transcend traditional storytelling boundaries. In animation, characters come alive in ways that defy the constraints of reality, allowing for imaginative and emotional storytelling that resonates with people of all ages.
In conclusion, Marc Davis's quote encapsulates the profound connection between animators and the characters they bring to life. Through the process of animating, artists gain a deep understanding of the multidimensional nature of characters, infusing them with personality, depth, and authenticity. This quote serves as a reminder of the transformative power of animation and its capacity to evoke genuine emotions and connections with audiences.