Clay Animation: It's Malleable Magic

by Debbie Wilson
debbie.wilson@computeranimationsschoolreview.com
Computer Animations School Review Columnist

Gumby, developed by clay animator extraordinaire Art Clokey, has been compared to historic and religious figures around the world. And that's because as a creator and writer, Clokey has managed to promote Gumby as an animated character who focuses on what's right and good. With his faith in following his heart, he always manages to triumph in the end. Sometimes he wins a race. Other times he learns a lesson. Either way, the Gumby animated figure represents the inner soul of us all.

How Gumby Became A World-Renowned Clay Animation Character

Back in the fifties, when Gumby was first developed, it took Art Clokey quite some time to determine the actual shape, size, and color for his clay animation creation. He finally settled on a tall, slender, rectangular shape, approximately 7 inches high, green in color, with the ever-so familiar bump located on the left side of his head. But, I bet you probably didn't know that Gumby's bump matched up with a picture of Art Clokey's father, who sported a huge cowlick on the side of his head, one that he could never seem to stick down. After a few replicas, Gumby the star was born.

Career In Clay Animation

If you love to mold with clay, have a unique and natural ability to create, and possess the desire to work hard developing your creations, a career in clay animation could be right for you. And just like Art Clokey's Gumby or the clay animated figures of Wallace & Gromit, you too can enjoy all the fun that clay animation has to offer as you touch, push, mash, and lump your malleable blobs into magical works of art.

Animation may seem like it's all about computers and digital images nowadays, however the fact remains that clay animation has stood the test of time and with your creative instincts and raw inspiration, it will probably live on.

About the Author
Debbie Wilson currently operates a lakeside resort. Her previous experience includes profitability consulting for a national health-care company.

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