A Frame Through Nature
An exploration of 3D animation on communicating the benefits of outdoor play
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A Frame Through Nature is a short 3D animated film about how a child navigates the endless possibilities of imagination and play right in her own backyard. This research aimed to explore how using 3D animation and narrative techniques can enhance the relatability of messaging.
Imagination is a core part of free-play. I showed how 3D animation is flexible and allows the visualisation of imaginative or impossible endeavours. This led me to weave these benefits into a narrative structure for a more impactful and meaningful viewing experience.
Outdoor Play and the presence of Nature
Outdoor play is crucial for childhood development. Specifically, outdoor free play, also known as unstructured play, is when play is not organised or structured by an adult and is child-led. The natural obstacles the outdoors presents can encourage children’s curiosity and teach patience and appreciation for the world around them.
The presence of nature can act as a creative stimulant for children that allows them to explore its possibilities and boundaries. Children can develop a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature, fostering curiosity and exploration.
Why Animation
Animation comes in many different forms for different purposes. From simple 2D animations to 3D and stop motion, it is a versatile medium for communicating all types of concepts to all audiences. Animation also allows the creator to visualise imaginative or impossible endeavours - something live action cannot effectively do. This makes for more creative options in animation storytelling
The relevance of animation in the context of my research is the potential to explore stories and ideas that create a more meaningful impact by emphasising the positives of outdoor play.
Narrative in Animation
The narrative plays an essential part in the creation of a story-driven animation. According to John Lasseter, chief creator officer at Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios, it is important to establish a story’s emotional core or idea and then construct it visually. Narratives in animation can be aided by strategic visual direction. The choice of using specific colours, lighting ambience and shot compositions can reinforce the narrative, making it more impactful. For this animation, it was important to use a meaningful narrative to emphasise how outdoor play encourages creativity.
Concepts
Story Development
