What is Animation?

• Animation is an exhibit about the science behind the art of animation.
• Animation actually draws from a number of math and science principles including physics, geometry, and the physiology of human vision and perception.
• Animators plot out a character’s path of action on a grid, use ratios to create characters in scale with their environments, and apply their knowledge of physics to simulate realistic movements. The amount of science and math that goes into creating even a simple animation is fascinating.
• The exhibit explores the process of animation from concept to finished product — from storyboarding, character design, and drawing techniques to movement, timing, filming, and sound. Larger-than-life graphics of Cartoon Network characters give the exhibit a colorful background.

How large is the exhibit?

Animation is 6,000 square feet and contains more than 25 interactive exhibits in six thematic areas.

Which characters will we see in the exhibit?

You’ll see larger-than-life graphics of characters from Dexter’s Laboratory, Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends, Codename: Kids Next Door, and The Powerpuff Girls, as well as popular Hanna-Barbera characters such as Scooby-Doo and The Flintstones.

Isn’t animation kind of a light topic for a science museum?

• Not at all. Animation isn’t just about cartoons and special effects. Professionals in many different scientific fields and industries are increasingly using animation to model environments and test ideas.
• The exhibit illustrates how animation is becoming a larger part of our everyday lives. In addition, all animators must understand math and science principles from subjects as diverse as anatomy, physics, and geometry in order to create their art.

Why team up with Cartoon Network?

OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) approached animation powerhouse Cartoon Network when they came up with the idea for an exhibit about animation. Cartoon Network liked the idea of creating an exhibit that could teach people of all ages about the art and science behind animation and get them excited about careers in animation. Cartoon Network provided a great deal of guidance during the exhibit development and also gave OMSI the right to use many of its popular characters.

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