Every year on October 28th, International Animation Day gives us a chance to reflect on the important role animation plays in storytelling and creativity. From simple hand-drawn sketches to high-tech computer-generated imagery (CGI), animation has evolved into a medium that reaches people of all ages and backgrounds. On this day, we recognize the technical skill, artistry, and innovation that have shaped animated features, TV series, and short films for decades.
Why Animation Deserves A Day of Its Own
For many, animation is a child’s first introduction to movies. It shapes how they see stories, art, and creativity. Iconic characters like Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny, and the heroes of Toy Story are loved by generation after generation.
But, animation is more than just entertainment. It’s an art form that combines stories with technology, offering endless possibilities for creative expression.
Animation helps us tell stories that cross cultural and language boundaries. It brings to life emotions and experiences that resonate with audiences of all ages. It lets us create entire worlds from scratch, transporting viewers to places beyond everyday life. Animation is truly a gateway to imagination.
Animation Beyond The Studio
Animation’s impact stretches far beyond films and TV shows. It plays a crucial role in education, making complex topics easier to understand. Weather animations help us understand the size and danger of hurricanes, while public health campaigns use animation to simplify important issues for a wider audience.
In marketing, animation has become a powerful tool to tell brand stories and promote products. Animated ads, explainer videos, and characters like the Geico Gecko or Tony the Tiger engage audiences in ways that static images and live-action content often can’t. Animation brings ideas to life with creativity and flair.
The Role Of Shared Storage In Animation Production
By combining drawing, sculpting, and writing with technology such as motion capture, visual effects, and 3D rendering, animation often pushes the limits of what can be done in storytelling.
To keep up with this creative process, smooth collaboration is key. Animators, artists, and editors need to share large files quickly and work together in real time. With a fast, reliable, shared storage solution like SNS EVO, teams can easily collaborate, meet tight deadlines, and focus on what they do best—bringing stories to life.
A Brief History Of Animation
Animation has come a long way since its early days. The foundation of modern animation was laid in the late 19th century with inventions like Émile Reynaud’s Praxinoscope, which projected hand-drawn images to create the illusion of movement. A major breakthrough came in 1928 with Walt Disney’s Steamboat Willie, which introduced synchronized sound and made Mickey Mouse a cultural icon. This marked a turning point, showing that animation could be more than a novelty—it could tell engaging, emotionally resonant stories.
Since then, animation has evolved through many styles and techniques. From the hand-drawn classics of the Golden Age, like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), to the advent of computer-generated imagery (CGI) with Toy Story (1995), animation has consistently pushed boundaries. Today, emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) are opening up new ways to tell stories and create art. First celebrated in 2002 by the Association Internationale du Film d’Animation (ASIFA), International Animation Day honors this rich history and highlights the creative diversity of animated works from around the world.
Happy International Animation Day!
Animation continues to bring joy and wonder to the world. Whether you’re an animator, a fan, or someone who loves great stories, today is a perfect time to appreciate how animation has enriched our lives.
Here’s how I plan to celebrate this year.
- Thank an Animator: Animation artists are a special part of any production team and should be recognized for their hard work and creativity this IAD.
- Watch an Animated Film or Series: I’ll be deciding between my favorite animated film, Up, and my favorite animated series, Rick & Morty. Whether you love modern hits or classics like Spirited Away, give your favorite animated content a rewatch this week in honor of animators around the world.
- Try Animation Yourself: You probably have an idea for an animated video in your head right now (I know I do!). Consider turning it into an animation, either using animation software yourself or hiring a freelance animator to see the project through.
If you’re looking for fast, reliable shared storage for animation teams, contact SNS for a demo today.