24 Frames per Second

Twenty Four Frames per Second

Selected Israeli Animation from the Last Decade

Animation is the act of instilling life into figures, objects or backgrounds. In order to process an animated film as a lively, flowing motion, the human eye has to view it at a frequency of 24 images per second. Through animation, whether drawn by hand or using computer-generated techniques, artists can narrate a tale with alternative methods, creating detailed, imaginative descriptions unbound by the real world’s physical and emotional conventions. Compared with “live action” cinema, animation presents a plethora of options for timings, and for the inception of exaggerated characters and scenes and for expressing unlimited abilities, all the while weaving a plot that is perceived as credible and real. Animation used to be regarded as light entertainment or cartoons, mostly directed at children; in recent decades, its public perception has changed, and it is adopted in many areas: in feature films and documentaries, in advertising and education and as an art form.

In 2008, with the release of the docu-drama Waltz with Bashir (director: Ari Folman, animator: David Polonsky), animation’s ability to depict an emotional journey was distinctly manifested. The film, which presented an illusionary journey that oscillates between memory and reality, received international acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award; it transformed the public’s perception of the medium and paved the way for new animated films. Today, animation in Israel is thriving and considered among the most innovative in the global landscape.

The exhibition 24 Frames per Second features a collection of short animation works from the past decade, selected from hundreds of films by Israeli animators. Independent and non-commissioned, these films have been presented in prominent animation festivals in Israel and abroad. The films are presented in six thematic compilations: Hollow Land — social or political films that focus on Israeli reality; Joints — abstract or experimental works; A Way of Being — tales of psychological struggles, internal or real life-altering journeys; Fledge — coming-of-age narratives revolving around children and teenagers; In Other Words — films about relations between partners, family members or friends; Journey Birds — docu-animation films on various topics; and Puzzles, a compilation of films suitable for children, to be screened on Saturdays.

The film compilations are alternated every fortnight, to allow for an extensive presentation of a variety of films and film-makers.

Tal Lanir
Exhibition curator