History of Motion Graphics | Presentation Geeks | #powerpointdesigners

Computer animation was first developed in the 1960s and would come to change the landscape of motion graphics forever. However, traditional graphic design continued to thrive in the latter half of the 20th century. Saul Bass was a notable graphic designer and major pioneer in motion graphic design who helped popularize motion graphics for even non-animated films. He is most remembered for his simple but effective feature film title sequences for popular films such as “Psycho” and “The Man With The Golden Arm.”

John Whitney, meanwhile, is considered one of the fathers of computerized animation. His company, called “Motion Graphics Inc.,” is responsible for popularizing the term “motion graphics” in America. He is renowned for using a mechanical analogue computer to animate unique title sequences, including one of the most famous title sequences in cinema history, for the film “Vertigo”, a collaboration with Saul Bass that featured swirling graphics growing larger and smaller.

Artists such as Stan Brakhage began to incorporate new techniques with new technology in their use of motion graphics. A pioneer in experimental film, Brakhage’s techniques included innovations such as scratched emulsion, rapid cutaways, painting directly onto celluloid, and using multiple exposures to invent new modes of film expression.

The works of Saul Bass, Stan Brakhage, and many more helped inspire a new generation of motion design as the art form developed into the 21st Century. For example, Kyle Cooper, who has worked on films such as Se7en and the Spiderman trilogy, used Brakhage’s techniques alongside digital effects and animation software programs in his title design. Directly inspired by Saul Bass, Cooper’s extensive film career and innovative film titles demonstrate the culmination of over 200 years of motion graphics innovation.

Like any form of history, the history of motion graphics is still being made and we’re excited to see how it continues to develop!