601: Statement Of Intent

COP3 Statement of Intent

Throughout the history of animation, there has arguably been a stigma surrounding the inclusion of minorities. Often in western countries, influenced by the societal and cultural standards of the time, and the ill-informed stereotype that cartoons are inherently childish, parents are often in uproar when creators make a quote-on-quote controversial decision to include, and highlight, members of an underrepresented group, particularly introducing characters that identify as LGBTQ+.

Over the next eleven weeks, I'm aiming to explore the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in animated productions, by looking through the history of these characters (in both my essay and my visual journal).

In order to fully understand the weight of the themes in my essay, I plan to research the history in depth by looking through a variety of both primary and secondary resources. I have already searched for a number of published books and journals that may help to develop my understanding of the topic, so the next step from here would be to see whether the library owns them, or if I will need to look elsewhere. I have also explored online; looking at articles, journals, interviews and blogs for guidance.

In my essay, I need to try and stay as unbiased as possible. However, the themes I am covering are very sensitive so I need to also make sure I'm careful with how I go about writing the arguments. I need to review each source carefully as not everything found over the internet is true. I need to be aware of trolls looking to get a rise out of an already targeted community.

I'm aiming to gather a wide range of reactions, so while most articles so far have shown lots of praise for these creative decisions (usually voiced by the younger generations), I will also be considering the negative responses, such as complaints and the controversy surrounding the inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters, particularly in kids shows. I aim to see whether or not the stereotype that all cartoons are aimed at children is what makes parents react so poorly to this representation, and whether or not more kids shows should include members of this community, as young minds are the most tolerant. 

From now until December, I will:

- Continue to work in my physical sketchbook; studying a range of character designs, experimenting with colour, shape and appearance, and I will eventually design my own characters.

- Create at least one refined turn-around.

- Read through some of the books I have found and see if I can find any useful quotes or references that will aid me throughout my writing process.

- Watch as many cartoons with examples that I can to see if there are certain reoccurring themes such as mannerisms or body language that could help me when designing my own characters.

- Remain calm!

- Continue to update my blog with my progress and critically analyse my outcomes in order to push myself further and improve.