The role that the internet plays in the way we consume media and video has led to an increase in the volume of animation that is produced and broadcast. Rather than requiring studio or network support to gain an audience for animations, the internet enables any user to create and upload their work through websites such as Youtube and Vimeo. While this means that many people are capable of creating animations as a hobby, many others whose work becomes successful through these channels are able to make a living through creating animated series' broadcast on the internet.
My favourite of these series' is Simon's Cat by Simon Tofield. While the concept and style of these animated shorts is fairly simple (black and white line drawings, depicting a man being tormented by his food and attention obsessed pet) that is what makes them work. For any cat owner, the scenarios are immediately recognisable (unless mine and Tofield's cats are the only such mischievous animals), while the unobtrusive style allows the focus to remain upon the animation; this is important as much of the humour in these videos is derived from subtle gestures and movements which would be swamped in fully coloured, highly detailed environment.
My favourite of these series' is Simon's Cat by Simon Tofield. While the concept and style of these animated shorts is fairly simple (black and white line drawings, depicting a man being tormented by his food and attention obsessed pet) that is what makes them work. For any cat owner, the scenarios are immediately recognisable (unless mine and Tofield's cats are the only such mischievous animals), while the unobtrusive style allows the focus to remain upon the animation; this is important as much of the humour in these videos is derived from subtle gestures and movements which would be swamped in fully coloured, highly detailed environment.
Creating animation for an internet audience also removes many of the restraints and restrictions which would no doubt apply when working for film or television. For one thing, TV schedules rarely feature programmes less than 20 minutes in length, whereas episodes of series' for the internet can be any length. Simon's Cats rarely exceed two or three minutes, as they do not have complex plots or storylines but are rather witty and well executed observations.
Not working to the requirements of a company or employer also provides the opportunity to use your own ideas and create whatever takes your fancy. And there is always the added bonus that the internet may bring your work to the attention of somebody who works in the animation industry. It cannot be argued that the Internet has made the task of networking more accessible and approachable.
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