The Persistence of Animation

George Debels: Pioneer of Dutch Animation: The influence of American theatrical cartoons on early Dutch commercials

Abstract: This paper is a case study of the work of George Debels (Antwerp 1890-Amsterdam 1973). The life and work of Debels, the most productive pioneer of Dutch animation from the period 1916-1936, is briefly introduced. Being one of the very few filmmakers working in animation in The Netherlands, he probably learned many tricks of the trade by studying American cartoons that were shown in cinemas. The paper will focus will on how the design and style of Debels’ films was influenced by these American cartoons.

Biographical Statement: Mette Peters is researcher and curator of collections at the Netherlands Institute for Animation Film (NIAf). (The NIAf is the national centre of expertise and information for animation film and focuses on an artist in residence programme for talented animators.) She coordinates preservation projects, publications and exhibitions on animation. Her research interests particularly focus on the history of Dutch animation and animation preservation. She is co-author of the book Meestal in ‘t Verborgene: Animatiefilm in Nederland 1940-1945 (Animation Film in The Netherlands 1940-1945) and with Paul Wells, is currently working on a book about Animation Archives.

Magoo and Mickey’s First Television Adventures: Transitional Advertising Forms and the Theatrical Cartoon Star

Abstract: In the mid 1950’s Disney and UPA, adapting to survive the changing economic and cultural climate, began using characters from their theatrical cartoon shorts in television advertising. Cinematic innovation had failed to prevent sales declines. However, pervasive advertising promised new revenue. Combining cinematic style with television technology, these hybrid texts suggest a brief yet experimental animation movement. Contextualized in both theatrical and television history, myriad influences can be discerned that are crucial to animation’s emergence in a new cultural space. These texts, rediscovered on the internet, also mirror shifts in contemporary animation practice and theory.

Biographical Statement: As a Project Specialist at the University of Southern California Institute for Creative Technologies, I develop cognitive simulations for education that integrate cutting edge computer animation. My theoretical animation work complements this academic practice. This paper is a case study in a larger effort, initiated to survey individual animation practice through periods of industrial transition. A parallel study is focused on development of animated advertising in India today. I received my Masters degree in May, 2008 from the USC School of Cinematic Arts, concentrating in animation studies. Accordingly, this paper is part of an exploratory effort for future dissertation research.