Animating inanimate artworks

Published on 28 May 2020

Inanimate animation online meeting

Animating inanimate artworks

A selection of artworks in Rockhampton Art Gallery’s collection will come to life as part of a new joint project with students from CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Digital Media course.

The Inanimate Animation Project, an initiative of Rockhampton Art Gallery, will see elements of a number of the Gallery’s 2D artworks digitally animated.

When completed, the animations will provide a more immersive experience for the public, who will interact with the works via Ipads or with the animations screened next to the original artwork. The animations will also be available to a wider audience via the Gallery’s website.

The project commenced on schedule in April, even with social distancing regulations in place. Students will individually work remotely on test objects, honing skills and experimenting with techniques, with an expected conclusion in October.

The project is the second collaboration with CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Digital Media course. The first, in 2019, created 3D renderings of 30 of the ceramic works held in Rockhampton Art Gallery’s collection.

Community Services Portfolio Spokesperson Councillor Drew Wickerson said that  projects such as this and the Gallery in 3D project last year would enable the gallery will reach beyond the Rockhampton Region and continue to be a true national asset.

“With these animations accessible from homes, classrooms and smart devices, Australia will be able to have part of our nationally significant collection, virtually in the palm of their hand,” he said.

“Rockhampton Regional Council is pleased to be able to partner with CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Digital Media students to provide an authentic learning opportunity for students,” he said.

CQUniversity Unit Coordinator, Dr Ashley Holmes said the Inanimate Animation Project is one of 11 digital media challenges being produced for organisations throughout Central Queensland this year.

“Normally a large number of our students study online. This year, so far they all are because of social distancing,” he said.

“Projects such as this constitute an important part of the Bachelor of Digital Media Course at CQUniversity. The partnership is designed to advance the learnings and real life experience of CQUniversity students while deepening people’s interactions with art by animating inanimate artworks,” he said.

Rockhampton Art Gallery is owned and operated by Rockhampton Regional Council.

 

PHOTO: Rockhampton Art Gallery Collection Officer Lexi Maller with one group of animation students in an online meeting.