The animation industry has always embraced trends, styles, and techniques that evolve with technology, culture, and creativity. Over the past couple of years, 2D animation has been experiencing a renaissance, and the range of styles is growing. The article will cover some of the latest and most popular 2D animation styles that have emerged in recent years and their sources.
Flat design animation
Flat design is a relatively new and modern style of 2D animation. It is characterized by using simple shapes and colors that are usually solid and minimalist. This style is often used in explainers, advertisements, and educational videos. Flat design animation is used primarily to evoke feelings of minimalism, elegance, and modernity. Sources for this style include Motion Design School and Animation.
Hand-drawn animation
Hand-drawn animation is perhaps the oldest style of 2D animation, but it has always been in fashion. Despite the growth in computer-generated imagery (CGI), many drawings still bring life and fun to illustrations, TV shows, and movies. This animation style is unique in that it captures the nuances and expressions of a character. Sources for this style include The Animator’s Survival Kit and The Art of Pixar.
Cut-out animation
Cut-out animation is a style of animation that uses pre-designed and pre-animated characters, sounds, and background elements to create the illusion of motion. It is prevalent in television programs and creates a more sophisticated look with fewer elements. Sources for this style include Cartoon Smart and Animation for Beginners.
Skeuomorphic animation
Skeuomorphic animation is an approach to design that tries to mimic real-world objects, often with great detail. It creates a sense of familiarity, comfort, and belonging. Skeuomorphic animation is the perfect choice for advertisements and video games where users need guidance and information. Sources for this style include Animation Mentor and Pluralsight.
Isometric animation
Isometric animation is a modern style characterized by a three-dimensional plane. It is best used for explainer videos, diagrams, whiteboard animations, and infographics. The class is eye-catching and allows viewers to visualize the subject matter from various angles. Sources for this style include Adobe After Effects and Toon Boom Harmony.
Cut-out and collage animation
This style combines cut-out and collage techniques to create a unique, playful, and dynamic look. It involves cutting out elements from different media sources, such as magazines, photographs, or drawings, and animating them together in a seamless way. Sources for this style include the School of Motion and AE Academy.
Liquid motion animation
Liquid motion animation is a visually stunning and fluid style of 2D animation. It involves animating elements such as water, paint, or ink in a smooth and flowing manner. This style is often used in advertisements and music videos to create a mesmerizing effect. Sources for this style include Motion Science and Myograph Mentor.
Motion graphics
Motion graphics is a broad term encompassing various styles of animated graphics, including 2D animation. It is often used in broadcast design, explainer videos, and title sequences. Motion graphics can be highly stylized and dynamic or elegant and minimalistic. Sources for this style include School of Motion and Skillshare.
In conclusion, 2D animation is an industry that is constantly evolving, and the styles mentioned here are just a few examples of what is currently popular. The versatility of 2D animation means the possibilities are endless, with creativity and technology behind it. If you’re a budding animator or want to explore more, this list of styles and their sources is an excellent place to start.
