Though the roots of animation date back as far as Paleolithic cave art, creations such as the thaumatrope and zoetrope took the art form to new heights in the 19th century. These toys, which relied on optical tricks in order to create the illusion of movement in otherwise still drawings, paved the path for more complex forms of animation, and even inspired a young Walt Disney. Journey back in time to create your own thaumatrope and a miniature zoetrope, which exemplify—through nothing more than clever positioning and a simple spinning motion—how immobile drawings can appear to come to life.
Other Programs
Within the world of animation, cloaks are an iconic item of clothing for fantastical adventures. A gust of wind side-sweeping a cape can make for an...
Sat, Aug 13 | 10:30am–noon PT- Workshops Virtual
Within the world of animation, cloaks are an iconic item of clothing for fantastical adventures. A gust of wind side-sweeping a cape can make for an...
Sat, Aug 13 | 1–2:30pm PT This month marks the 80th anniversary of the feature-length film Bambi (1942). In the classic film, life in the woods is painted through breathtaking...
Sun, Aug 21 | 10:30am–12:30pm- Workshops Virtual
Every hero needs a dynamic pose, action, or movement to visually tell the audience how amazing they are. Join as we explore the dynamic acts of...
Sat, Aug 27 | 10:30am–noon PT Every hero needs a dynamic pose, action, or movement to visually tell the audience how amazing they are. Join as we explore the dynamic acts of...
Sat, Aug 27 | 1–2:30pm PT- Workshops Virtual
As Fall begins, orchards are filled with sweet apples ripe for the picking. Join us as we enjoy a favorite Autumn pastime and explore how characters...
Sat, Sep 10 | 10:30am–noon PT - Workshops Virtual
As Fall begins, orchards are filled with sweet apples ripe for the picking. Join us as we enjoy a favorite Autumn pastime and explore how characters...
Sat, Sep 10 | 1–2:30pm PT - Workshops
Extreme color transformations within leaves and flowers occur in the Fall. Color has also left quite a cinematic impact on the depiction of flora...
Sun, Sep 18 | 10:30am–12:30pm PT - Workshops Virtual
Sweater weather has arrived in the Bay Area with its trademark crisp air and falling leaves. Spend a cozy day with us as we focus on autumnal themes...
Sat, Sep 24 | 1–2:30pm PT