Motion Graphics / Critical Debates Task 3

Digital media design or motion graphics is a relatively young discipline and the limits of its scope seem to be rather blurred. It incorporates moving image, sound and typography, which puts it in touch with film making, animation and graphic design.

Since there is no universally accepted definition of motion graphics, the official beginning of the art form is heavily disputed. However, most professionals agree that Saul Bass is the most significant pioneer in animated graphic design, and that his work marks the true beginning of what is now commonly referred to as motion graphics.

At present the industry is extremely diverse, with big and small players producing a wide variety of content – ranging from art-based sequences to strictly commercial work like promotional films, adverts, TV channel and programme identities, digital and web campaigns, etc. Some of the UK's most successful digital companies are Red Bee Media, Poke, AKQA, Channel 4/E4/Film 4 and Moving Brands, among others.

What does the future hold? The huge success of Avatar has shown the maturity of the technology to create compelling 3D movie experiences. 3D television is also being rapidly developed, with the recent match between Arsenal and Manchester United being the first football game shot in 3D by Sky. “Regular” two-dimensional animations and motion graphics are thriving as well and will certainly keep doing so in the future.


Saul Bass, Credits Sequence from The Man with the Golden Arm


Avatar Trailer

A couple of cool motion gallery websites that I discovered during my research: Motionographer and Creative League.