The Shantyman | Award Winning Stop Motion Animation
The Shantyman can be described basically as an ode to loners. As a lone sailor hauls on his own in the ocean, he explores the feelings of being misunderstood and isolated. What will happen as he attempts to soothe his lonesome feelings on his own?
This is 100% the hardest project I have ever worked on. Like seriously. My back still hurts from it.
Ok that last sentence is an exaggeration, but this has been one of the single greatest tests of patience I have ever put myself through. I really wanted to go with visual appeal in this one, as well as other elements I haven't really explored, which of course kinda killed me in the end. But I love the Shantyman. Regardless of the fact that most of my animations hold some personal touch to them, this one really delves into my personal feelings and how I perceive parts of myself. I found that shanties would be perfect for the "thing" that seems strange and outdated as an interest, as I myself really enjoy sea shanties and used them to represent that kind of misunderstanding that most people will have to my deep interests in the outsider kind of hobbies. This project is also the first time I have made my own soundtrack for a film (the shanty already exists, but I made my own "cover" of it), first time animating water (using clear hair gel and a big blue board), and using actual fabric and yarn to create a stylistic outfit for the character.
Overall, I love this animation. I don't know if I dare say it's my favorite, but it is definitely up there. If you read through this, thanks for sticking through. I hope you enjoyed my wax poetic geeking out.
Big thanks to Elsa and Clairio for the outfits and hats! You guys saved me.
Also thanks to Jo for the support and ideas :)
Have a wonderful day :)