Representation,stereotyping, 'race' and multiculturalism in
film, television and other audio-visual forms have been subjected
to numerous studies in Britain and the United States. However there
hasn't been a concerted effort, and a systematic study,that
addresses those issues within the framework of televised animation
in Britain. Furthermore there are no animation-inspired studies
involving practical dimensions that [currently] exist to facilitate
such discourse. This work examines the characterization of blacks
in contemporary British-made animated films. It explores racial
stereotyping and locates significant absences. The study involves
two components: theory and practice. The first element seeks to
investigate issues relating to representation, stereotyping,
'race' and British multiculturalism. Using case studies the
work posits that Britain's multiculturality has not been
adequately represented in popular modes of television animation.
The second component involves the production of a
'claymation' film designed to demonstrate how it is
possible to counter some of the gaps and problems embedded in black
representation in the media, but especially animation.
Dr. Charles daCosta is an Animation History and Media Studies professor in the USA. The West African native has taught, and led animation training initiatives in educational institutions across Europe and Africa. A multi-instrumentalist, he is passionate about stop-motion, and is currently developing an animated documentary series.
