The project centred on a bouncing ball sprite. This classic exercise helped me to learn animation, as it isolated principles in a simple form. The single round shape removed distractions. So I could focus on timing, spacing, squash-and-stretch, arcs, weight, and easing. These are the core mechanics that make motion feel believable. The ball's path highlights timing and spacing. Together those create acceleration and deceleration. Squash-and-stretch shows how volume and elasticity convey force and impact. The ball has no limbs or expressions, so this practice conveys motion and intent purely through movement.
My choice of background provided an environmental context. I used my photo of a working bee in a metallic silhouette shooting range. That volunteer work adds real-world texture and purpose. I used it to transform a technical exercise into a visual narrative about community engagement.
In the early 19th century, the Phénakisticope and Zoetrope toys demonstrated animation. In the early 20th century, animators developed stop-motion techniques. This method physically manipulated objects frame by frame. The next advance came with cel animation. Whereby artists hand-drew each element of a scene on transparent sheets. The more fluid and intricate movements enabled complex and expressive narratives. Digital animation emerged in the late 20th century. This leap introduced computer-generated graphics. This revolution transformed animation into a dynamic medium with limitless possibilities!
