New York Animation Culture, 1966-1999

“City in Motion is an original and valuable account of the animation industry in New York in the latter-half of the twentieth century. It provides a timely insight into the effects of technological change on animation production and paints a vivid picture of the communities and individuals involved. Drawing on first-hand accounts from interviews and primary sources, it offers new insight into an under-researched and neglected aspect of animation history that has been overshadowed by the dominant Hollywood animation studios, shining a light on previously ignored pioneers. With accessible and enthusiastic writing and copiously illustrated, it transports the reader to this vibrant place and time.” — Malcolm Cook, Associate Professor in Film Studies, University of Southampton Focusing on a specific period in New York’s rich animation history, City in Motion examines the unique styles, movements, personalities, and projects that emerged in the city from 1966 to 1999. During this era, New York became a hub of significant stylistic, cultural, and market transformations, playing a crucial role in nurturing the rise of independent animation as well as the development of digital production platforms and methods. This shift ultimately led to the decline of cel and film techniques, which had been the dominant means of animation production until that time. Nonetheless, it also provided independent artists with opportunities to influence the future direction of animation. A central theme of this work links the efforts in New York to today's creator-driven animation, illustrating a direct connection between New York independents and properties such as Sesame Street, MTV, Adult Swim, and The Simpsons. Robby Gilbert is an animator, illustrator, and cartoonist, best known for his work in educational and interactive media. His work often explores the relationships and interconnectivity among various artistic disciplines. Gilbert has taught animation, illustration, and game design at several colleges and is currently a professor of animation at Rowan University in Glassboro, NJ, USA, where he directs the Moving Image Research Lab.