AI and Animation
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the center of a revolution in technology in the global
animation industry, which is changing how animation is created, shared, and
consumed. More significantly, AI is providing a potent tool for bringing local stories
to life in novel ways.
AI is simplifying animation production by decreasing human
effort and speeding up workflows. Jeffrey Katzenberg, founder and managing partner
WNDRCO discusses his thoughts on the impact of artificial intelligence on the
creative industry at the annual Bloomberg New Economy Forum in Singapore in
2023.
I think AI as a creative form. Think of it as a new form. A
new paintbrush or a new camera that has so much
opportunities around it. On the one hand, it would be
disruptive and commoditized things that are very
inaccessible for artists and storytellers today.
-Jeffrey Katzenberg
Previously, animators employed expensive, time-consuming frame-by-frame
drawings or complex 3D modeling, but these days, AI-powered tools are transforming
the way animation is produced. Without requiring costly equipment, AI-assisted
motion capture improves character movements to make them more realistic and fluid.
The workload of animators is greatly reduced by platforms like Adobe Sensei and
DeepMotion, which automates in-between frame production. Furthermore, animators
use tools like MidJourney and RunwayML to develop distinctive character designs.
AI is modifying animation beyond efficiency. AI solutions enable independent
producers and small studios to compete globally by reducing production costs. But
there are also issues with this technological change. Excessive dependence on AI
may erode the artistic quality of animation by undermining conventional hand-drawn
methods. The CEO and Founder of Kingwood Comics, David Crownson, asserted the
possibility of AI putting a lot of people out of work due to the fact that many people
in the comics and animation industry are looking for ways to minimize production
expenses and save money.
By Akpovwovwo Emetekefe