Honors Program
Fine and Performing Arts Honors
Date of Award
4-2024
Thesis Professor(s)
Greg Marlow
Thesis Professor Department
Digital Media
Thesis Reader(s)
Chris Wilson
Abstract
The Art of the Pivot:
A Collection of Animation Techniques Abstract
As an artist, my work reflects my experiences, the world around me, and the stories of others. My artist statement is deeply rooted in the belief that my art is a conduit for expressing other's stories through myself. I've always aspired for my animation skills to transcend storytelling and to tell my own stories and those of others. My journey towards my thesis was not without its share of unexpected twists and turns. These challenges, though daunting, were an integral part of my growth. My thesis journey has been a rich tapestry of artistic, business, and community opportunities. I am eager to share this adventure, including the inspiration, animation techniques, and setbacks, with others.
My passion for animation extends far beyond the immediate project. The long-term vision for Piston Springs was to serve as a proof of concept for potential clients. I envisioned clients commissioning me to bring their animated concepts to life, using animation to generate excitement for their products. But more than that, my ultimate goal is to use animation as a medium to tell compelling stories underpinned by a sustainable business model. This dedication to storytelling through animation is not just a part of my work. It is the driving force behind it, a force that I am eager to share with others.
In conclusion, my thesis was a more complex journey. The artistic process is a more spontaneous project pathway. When I embarked on my thesis journey last summer, I couldn't have anticipated how the 'art of the pivot' would permeate every aspect of the process. I've deepened my understanding of the animation process through my animation and production work, uncovering unexpected insights and learnings. This skill is vital for any animator in our fast-paced, ever-changing world. My thesis will inspire others to share their stories through animation while reminding them of the importance of flexibility and openness to every opportunity along their journey.
Publisher
East Tennessee State University
Document Type
Honors Thesis - Open Access
Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Cook, Andrew, "The Art of the Pivot: A Collection of Animation Techniques" (2024). Undergraduate Honors Theses. Paper 840. https://dc.etsu.edu/honors/840
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.