“Together”
Digital Stop Motion Animation, 2025
Poem by Pablo Neruda
Music by Charles Mingus
Reflection
For this project, I wanted to embrace the handmade qualities of stop-motion animation. I focused on building a physical set and creating a sense of depth within each shot. The figures were constructed using paper, tiny metal fasteners, and small amounts of glue, while felt and mulberry paper were used to create the landscape elements. I captured the images using a camcorder and a tripod.
I thoroughly enjoyed the process of creating every element and working with materials I already had on hand. Although I began with a rough idea of the storyline, much of the final narrative emerged through improvisation and intuition.
I made my first stop-motion film in high school, and I still remember the sense of accomplishment I felt upon completing it. That same feeling resurfaced while working on this project. Stop-motion animation provides an excellent foundation for students in the arts, encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on experimentation.