Beneath the Cherry Blossoms: An Exploration of Motion Design for the Multimedia Designer

Abstract

ABSTRACT BENEATH THE CHERRY BLOSSOMS: AN EXPLORATION OF MOTION DESIGN FOR THE MULTIMEDIA DESIGNER by © Adam Dean Clark 2011 Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies Applied Computer Graphics California State University, Chico Summer 2011 Through the production of an original motion design piece, this project will demonstrate and document how a single multimedia designer can produce an animation from conceptualization to a final output ready for audience viewing on multiple playback devices. The animation, Beneath the Cherry Blossoms, is a mock movie title sequence that includes typography and original painted/illustrated nature scenes inspired by Chinese brush painting and Japanese sumi-e artwork. It incorporates both traditional and digital media and utilizes keyframing and frame-by-frame animation of 2D imagery. In addition to a step-by-step treatment of the work, reflections and recommendations are made, including an analysis of software, technical discoveries, and the personal and organizational skills necessary for a motion design production. Although the primary focus will be on the creative and technical process for producing and moving the imagery, audio editing and obtaining rights to music, along with video compression for efficient playback will also be addressed. Various digital software (e.g., Photoshop, Corel Painter, TV Paint, After Effects, Premiere Pro, etc.) and its application to the project will be discussed in great detail, which is why this is recommended reading for an audience with a strong foundation in digital art and computer graphic software. The titling and organization of all headings and sub-headings is meant to allow greater accessibility for those with interests limited to specific techniques or topics.