This work for visual artist Orla Barry visualizes a short story through typographic animation. The concept grew into a moving representation of a book. The animation follows the mood and rhythm of the different sections of the story, about a group of young activists hitchhiking to an anti-nuclear protest in the late 1970s: from youthful and energetic to coming down off a bad trip.

The style is inspired by ad-hoc photocopied flyers with basic typefaces and felt-marker drawings, among other influences. Throughout the process, ideas for the animation, backgrounds and type treatment emerged organically from the content of the story.

The work combines written story, music and lyrics, merging them into a complex, layered piece. Found footage of the festival was heavily processed and worked into the animation, sometimes reduced to textural noise.

The work is presented on two vertical screens, mimicking an open book. On this page you’ll find some excerpts and screenshots.

Installation views: © Jed Niezgoda

credits
Written and directed by: Orla Barry
Soundtrack: Paul Bradley
Animation: Thomas De Brabanter
Sound edit and mix: Rian Trench
Archival footage: Ken Lynam