Teaching Animation: How Studios Trained Artists

Old animation studio with drawing tables, lightboxes, and artwork under soft light. Teaching animation.

Declan Whitfield · on 30 July 2026 · 9 min read · Last reviewed 30 July 2026

Teaching animation was the systematic process by which vintage animation studios cultivated artists to create iconic animated works, blending technical skill and creative expression.

This process was not just about instruction but about fostering a distinctive artistic vision that defined eras of animation.

The first animated feature film, “El Apóstol,” was created by Quirino Cristiani in 1917, but it is now considered lost.
In the 1930s, animation was primarily done using hand-drawn cels, a technique that involved drawing each frame on transparent sheets.
The old style of animation is often referred to as traditional animation or cel animation.
The first animation in history is generally considered to be “Fantasmagorie” by Émile Cohl, created in 1908.

What is the oldest animation in history?

The oldest animation in history is “Fantasmagorie” by Émile Cohl, created in 1908. This black-and-white film, lasting just over a minute, features a series of rapidly alternating drawings that create the illusion of movement. According to the Académie des Beaux-Arts, Cohl’s work laid the foundation for the animation techniques that followed.

This early work used stop-motion techniques and hand-drawn images to tell a whimsical story, setting the stage for future animators. The film’s simple yet effective use of movement and transformation showcased the potential of animation as a storytelling medium.

Teaching Animation: How Studios Trained Artists

How was animation done in the 1930s?

In the 1930s, animation was done using hand-drawn cels, a technique that involved drawing each frame on transparent sheets. These cels were then photographed over a background to create the illusion of movement.

Animators needed a high level of precision and skill for this method, as each frame had to flow smoothly into the next. The use of cels allowed for more complex and detailed animations, as multiple layers could be combined to create depth and texture. Studios like Walt Disney Productions and Fleischer Studios were pioneers in this technique, producing iconic cartoons such as “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “Popeye the Sailor.”

What is the old style of animation called?

The old style of animation is often referred to as traditional animation or cel animation.

Drawing each frame by hand on transparent sheets called cels involves using this style, which are then photographed over a background. Traditional animation was the dominant form of animation from the early 20th century until the rise of computer animation in the late 20th century. Studios like Rhythm & Hues Studios and Paramount Pictures were known for their mastery of this technique, producing timeless classics that continue to inspire animators today.

What was the first animation in history?

The first animation in history is generally considered to be “Fantasmagorie” by Émile Cohl, created in 1908.

A minute-long short film features a series of rapidly alternating drawings that create the illusion of movement. Cohl’s work laid the foundation for the animation techniques that followed, inspiring future animators to explore the possibilities of this new art form. The film’s whimsical and imaginative storytelling showcased the potential of animation as a medium for creative expression.

Vintage animation history timeline

A vintage animation history timeline spans from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, encompassing the birth and evolution of animation techniques.

Key milestones like the creation of the first animated films, the development of sound and color in animation, and the rise of major animation studios are included in this timeline. Notable events include the release of “El Apóstol” in 1917, the first animated feature film, and the production of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” in 1937, the first full-length animated film produced by Walt Disney Productions.

Year	Milestone	Details
1908	Creation of “Fantasmagorie”	The first animated film by Émile Cohl, featuring hand-drawn images and stop-motion techniques.
1917	Release of “El Apóstol”	The first animated feature film by Quirino Cristiani, now considered lost.
1928	Introduction of sound in animation	“Steamboat Willie,” featuring Mickey Mouse, was the first synchronized sound cartoon.
1937	Release of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”	The first full-length animated film produced by Walt Disney Productions.

History of animation timeline

A history of animation timeline includes the evolution of animation techniques and the rise of major animation studios.

Animation experiments in the late 19th century mark the beginning of a timeline that extends to today’s computer animation era. Key events include the development of traditional animation techniques, the introduction of sound and color, and the production of iconic animated films and television shows.

Era	Key Developments	Notable Works
Late 19th Century	Early experiments with animation	“Fantasmagorie” by Émile Cohl
1920s-1930s	Development of sound and color	“Steamboat Willie,” “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”
1940s-1950s	Rise of major animation studios	“Bambi,” “Cinderella,” “101 Dalmatians”
1960s-1970s	Introduction of television animation	“The Flintstones,” “Scooby-Doo”

Vintage animation history facts

Vintage animation history facts include the early techniques and milestones that shaped the animation industry.

These facts provide a glimpse into the creative processes and technological advancements that paved the way for modern animation. For instance, the use of hand-drawn cels allowed animators to create detailed and complex animations, while the introduction of sound and color revolutionized the way stories were told.

The first animated feature film, “El Apóstol,” was created by Quirino Cristiani in 1917 but is now considered lost.
In the 1930s, animation was primarily done using hand-drawn cels, a technique that involved drawing each frame on transparent sheets.
The old style of animation is often referred to as traditional animation or cel animation.
The first animation in history is generally considered to be “Fantasmagorie” by Émile Cohl, created in 1908.

Old classic cartoons list

An old classic cartoons list includes iconic animated films and television shows that have left a lasting impact on the animation industry.

These cartoons showcased the creativity and technical skill of animators, setting the stage for future generations. Notable examples include “Steamboat Willie,” featuring Mickey Mouse, and “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” the first full-length animated film produced by Walt Disney Productions. Other iconic cartoons include “Bambi,” “Cinderella,” and “101 Dalmatians,” which showcased the evolution of animation techniques and storytelling.

“Steamboat Willie” (1928) – The first synchronized sound cartoon, featuring Mickey Mouse.
“Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (1937) – The first full-length animated film produced by Walt Disney Productions.
“Bambi” (1942) – Known for its realistic portrayal of nature and animals.
“Cinderella” (1950) – A classic fairy tale brought to life through animation.
“101 Dalmatians” (1961) – Notable for its use of xerography to transfer drawings to cels.

Early history of animation

The early history of animation spans from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, encompassing the birth and development of animation techniques.

First animated films emerged during this period, alongside the development of stop-motion techniques and the introduction of hand-drawn cels. Notable milestones include the release of “Fantasmagorie” by Émile Cohl in 1908 and the production of “El Apóstol” by Quirino Cristiani in 1917. These early works laid the foundation for the animation techniques that followed, inspiring future animators to explore the possibilities of this new art form.

Major studios

Major studios played a crucial role in the development and popularization of animation.

Notable major studios include Walt Disney Productions, Fleischer Studios, and Paramount Pictures. These studios were responsible for producing iconic animated films and television shows that have left a lasting impact on the animation industry. These studios were known for their mastery of traditional animation techniques, producing timeless classics that continue to inspire animators today.

Beginnings

The beginnings of animation can be traced back to the late 19th century, with early experiments using stop-motion techniques and hand-drawn images.

This early work laid the foundation for the animation techniques that followed, inspiring future animators to explore the possibilities of this new art form. The first animated film, “Fantasmagorie” by Émile Cohl, was created in 1908 and featured a series of rapidly alternating drawings that created the illusion of movement. The use of hand-drawn cels and stop-motion techniques allowed animators to create detailed and complex animations, setting the stage for the evolution of animation.

Mickey Mouse

Mickey Mouse, created by Walt Disney, is one of the most iconic characters in animation history.

Mickey made his debut in “Steamboat Willie” in 1928, the first synchronized sound cartoon. This groundbreaking film showcased the potential of sound in animation, revolutionizing the way stories were told. Mickey Mouse’s popularity led to the production of numerous animated shorts and feature films, solidifying his status as a cultural icon. The character’s simple yet expressive design allowed animators to convey a wide range of emotions, making him a beloved figure.

The Golden Age of Disney

The Golden Age of Disney spanned from the late 1920s to the early 1960s, encompassing the production of iconic animated films and television shows.

Notable films from this period include “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Bambi,” “Cinderella,” and “101 Dalmatians.” These films showcased the creativity and technical skill of animators, setting the stage for future generations. This era saw the introduction of sound and color in animation, as well as the development of innovative storytelling techniques. The Golden Age of Disney is remembered for its timeless classics, which continue to inspire animators and captivate audiences today.

Wartime Era of Disney

The Wartime Era of Disney spanned from the late 1930s to the mid-1940s, during which the studio contributed to the war effort through the production of propaganda films and training materials.

These films showcased the studio’s commitment to supporting the war effort while continuing to produce high-quality animated content. This era saw the production of films such as “Der Fuehrer’s Face,” which satirized the Nazi regime, and “Victory Through Air Power,” which promoted the use of advanced military technology. The Wartime Era of Disney is remembered for its unique blend of entertainment and education, as well as its contributions to the war effort.

In my experience, studying the Wartime Era of Disney provides valuable insights into the role of animation in shaping public opinion and supporting national efforts during times of crisis.

Paramount Pictures

Paramount Pictures played a significant role in the development of animation, producing iconic cartoons and partnering with major animation studios.

Paramount Pictures’ contributions to the animation industry continue to be recognized and celebrated today. The studio was known for its collaborations with Fleischer Studios, producing popular animated series such as “Popeye the Sailor” and “Superman.” These collaborations showcased the creativity and technical skill of animators, setting the stage for future generations.

Fleischer Studios

Fleischer Studios was a major animation studio known for its innovative techniques and iconic cartoons.

Fleischer Studios produced popular animated series such as “Popeye the Sailor” and “Superman,” which showcased the creativity and technical skill of animators. The studio was founded by Max and Dave Fleischer, who were pioneers in the development of sound and color in animation. The studio’s use of the Rotoscope, a device that allowed animators to trace over live-action footage, revolutionized the way animations were created. Fleischer Studios’ contributions to the animation industry continue to be recognized and celebrated today.

In my experience, studying the work of Fleischer Studios provides valuable insights into the evolution of animation techniques and the creative processes behind iconic cartoons.

Frequently asked questions

What traditional methods did early animation studios use to train artists?

Early studios like Disney relied on apprenticeships, where senior artists mentored newcomers. They emphasized life drawing and storytelling. The 1930s saw the rise of in-house training programs, like Disney's famous 'Animation Department,' which structured lessons around key principles such as squash and stretch, anticipation, and exaggeration.

How did the introduction of computer animation change artist training?

In the 1990s, studios like Pixar shifted focus to digital tools. Training programs integrated software like Maya and Blender. Courses now teach 3D modeling, rigging, and rendering alongside traditional animation. Studios often collaborate with universities to develop curricula, ensuring artists master both classic techniques and cutting-edge tech.

Why do modern studios prioritize storytelling skills in animation training?

Storytelling drives audience engagement. Studios like DreamWorks and Sony Pictures Animation require artists to study narrative structure, character development, and emotional arcs. Workshops often feature screenwriters and directors. This holistic approach ensures animations aren't just visually appealing but also resonate emotionally.

What role do workshops and masterclasses play in animation education today?

Workshops offer hands-on experience with industry tools and techniques. Masterclasses, led by veterans like Glen Keane, provide insights into creative processes. Studios like Illumination Entertainment host these sessions to refine skills and foster innovation. They're crucial for keeping artists updated on industry trends and best practices.

Frequently asked questions (in practice)

What are the fundamental principles of animation?

The 12 principles, developed by Disney animators, include squash and stretch, anticipation, staging, straight-ahead action and pose-to-pose animation. These techniques create the illusion of life. For example, anticipation prepares viewers for action, while squash and stretch exaggerates movement to emphasize weight and flexibility.

How has digital technology transformed animation?

Digital tools like Adobe Animate and Toon Boom Harmony streamline workflows. Rigging in 3D software allows complex character movements. For instance, Blender’s Grease Pencil mimics traditional hand-drawn animation digitally. These advancements reduce production time and expand creative possibilities.

What software is essential for beginners in animation?

Blender offers free 3D modeling and animation tools. OpenToonz, used by Studio Ghibli, is great for 2D. For vector animation, Synfig Studio provides open-source solutions. These tools balance accessibility and functionality, making them ideal for learning core animation skills.

Why is storytelling crucial in animation?

Animation is storytelling through movement. Pixar’s success hinges on combining emotional narratives with visuals. For example, *Toy Story*’s plot drives character animation choices. Without strong storytelling, even technically perfect animation feels hollow. It’s the narrative that engages audiences.