Representation and Narrative in Popular Two-Dimensional Animation: A Critical and Practical Investigation.

by Natalie Dekel.

Can self-observation of an artist/researcher on her work stand as an academic tool of investigation? I would argue that the process of moving from theoretical analysis to practical exploration of one’s own art work can challenge and enriche any academic research, and can establish better notion of author­ship.

I have conducted a research where the topic of hand-drawn animation served as the basis on which to build up conclusions on the authority of the artist/researcher. Having produced hand-drawn animation films, I examined their place is the contemporary commercial market, and conducted a study of how an animator can express her artistry through art-activity and through academic-activity. Animation was just an ‘excuse’ for this research, since I am an animator myself. In between the lines of the research lies the core investigation of the research, which is: what constitutes self-awareness in modern society?

I focus in this thesis on intuition coupled with analytical system of research, which help to see patterns and extract insights from practice to theory. These insights can then be used as principles on which to develop better practices, in art and in academia. Read the full thesis… (opens as PDF file.)

4 August 2010.
Natalie Dekel.