Book Overview
Title: Thinking Animation: Bridging the Gap Between 2D and CG
Authors: Angie Jones and Jamie Oliff
ISBN: 1-59863-260-4
Pages: 300
Published: June 2006
Formats: Hardcover and Kindle
Thinking Animation is a foundational guide for artists working between traditional animation and CG. Written by veteran animators from feature film, games, and commercials, the book explores movement, performance, storytelling, and craft without tying the ideas to any one software package.
This is not a software manual. It is a way of thinking.
Through illustrated examples, industry interviews, production insight, and practical advice, Thinking Animation helps 2D artists move into CG and helps CG artists build a stronger understanding of classical animation principles.
It is designed for students building a foundation, as well as working professionals who want to reconnect with the core ideas behind strong animation.
Forewords
Forewords by Floyd Norman and Richard Taylor
Thinking Animation was fortunate to include forewords by two respected voices in animation: Floyd Norman, whose career spans traditional animation and story work at Walt Disney and Hanna-Barbera, and Richard Taylor, a director, designer, and early CG pioneer.
Authors
Angie Jones
Angie Jones is an animation director, supervisor, and CG animation leader with more than 30 years of experience across feature film, games, television, and commercials. Her work spans stylized, cartoony, and photoreal animation, with credits on Oscar-winning films, Clio-winning commercials, and VES-recognized projects.
Across her career, Angie has contributed to 18 feature films, more than 75 commercials, and dozens of AAA video games. She has also taught animation at USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, Gnomon, CG Spectrum, and iAnimate.
Angie lives and works in Los Angeles, where she continues to create both animation and fine art.
Jamie Oliff
Jamie Oliff is a classically trained animator who studied at Sheridan College of Art and Design. With more than 20 years in the animation industry, he has worked as both a director and feature animator.
His credits include the first season of The Ren & Stimpy Show and feature work on The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Mulan, Hercules, and The Emperor’s New Groove. He has also worked in CG animation on projects including Kangaroo Jack, Scooby-Doo 2, and National Treasure.
Short Book Description
Thinking Animation explores the bridge between traditional animation principles and modern CG workflow. The book covers storytelling, character, acting, planning, workflow, studio life, and the mindset required to grow as an animator in a changing industry.
It combines historical context, production wisdom, humor, and advice from working professionals to create a guide that remains useful well beyond any specific toolset.