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Published on Friday 07 May 2021

Poole Museum explores animation in a new interactive exhibition by the National Centre for Computer Animation.

A fun-packed, interactive exhibition showcasing a selection of original concept art, storyboards, stills, games and finished films, opens on Saturday 22 May at Poole Museum in Galleries 1 and 2.

Once Upon a Time in Animationfeatures a wealth of creative talent from students, graduates and researchers from Bournemouth University. The objects and artwork on display are from the archives of the NCCA, which include staff and student work as well as industry donations. The exhibition explores different areas of animation, from film to game design, and shows how an initial idea develops into a finished moving image. The exhibition features household names including Miffy, Beatrix Potter and Aardman.

Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with COVID-19 secure exhibits including a display of student-created games, moving images and a cinema area. Alongside a zoetrope, there will be the chance to see original models by Academy Award winning Aardman, including Morph and Wallace & Gromit.While watching showreels from NCCA graduates, visitors will also learn more about advances in computer animation, how animation has impacted other fields including medicine, and the different career paths within animation.

Michael Spender, Museum and Arts Manager for BCP Council, said:

"We are looking forward to hosting such an innovative, family-friendly exhibition. It is wonderful to showcase the creative work of students and graduates from our local community. I would encourage all local residents and visitors to see this unique exhibition which aims to engage and inspire."

The exhibition will be supported by a range of online workshops for children and young people, including coding and game design. The programme of talks will feature leading experts and artists. The Wallace & Gromit Family Trail will invite audiences of all ages to experience Poole Museum with all new eyes. In addition, the NCCA and partner organisations will be running careers guidance for those interested in working in the field of computer animation. The exhibition is generously supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England National Lottery Project Grants.

‘We are excited to present such a wealth of diverse animation practices - showcasing, the past, present and future of the NCCA, and its creative motto of Science in the Service of Arts’ Dr. Oliver Gingrich (NCCA, Bournemouth University).

Once Upon a Time in Animation will run from 22 May – 4 July 2021.
Entry is free, although donations are welcome.

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