Computer animation has upended Hollywood, but a group of independent filmmakers in Oregon still make their movies by hand.
Hillsboro, Ore., animation studio Laika will showcase its handiwork in an exhibit at the Portland Art Museum, running from October to May.
Laika makes its movies using an old-fashioned technique called stop-motion animation, with subtly filmmakers manipulating puppets one frame at a time to simulate movement. The studio has made four films, most recently last year’s “Kubo and the Two Strings,” and all have been Oscar nominees for best animated feature.
The Portland exhibit will feature photos from the making of Laika’s films, video clips, and physical artwork that shows off Laika’s production design, sets, puppets and costumes. Additional exhibits will focus on the history of stop-motion animation, while the Northwest Film Center plans accompanying events with animation classes, workshops, and visiting artist programs.
