The History & Now of Motion Graphics

Motion Graphics (also known as Motion Design) is
everywhere. It
permeates a multitude of spaces and practices
including VR, AR, mixed
reality, UI/UX, apps, platforms, games,
experiences, and increasingly
includes AI. It also includes film and TV titles
and branding, filmmaking,
commercials, music videos and entertainment
design. As a specialized
practice, Motion Graphics was first recognized by
artist and computer
graphics pioneer John Whitney in 1962 when he
introduced the term
"motion graphics" for title design "as a
distinctly new problem for the field of
design." He argued that the designer may create
great graphics but for
great MOTION graphics the imaginative articulation
of movement is
required. It was just a decade earlier, in the
1950s, that the demand for
feature film title sequences and more
graphically-oriented commercials
grew, evolving from abstract films in the early
20th century.
This course will look back and forth between past,
present, and future of
Motion Graphics through weekly presentations,
assigned readings, and
discussion. Students will identify current issues
for the field and speculate
theoretically towards Motion Graphics as an
increasingly significant and
meaningful practice.