Preludes: A Mixed Media Animation Inspired by T.S. Eliot's Poem

Exploring the Intersection of Poetry, Music, and Animation

Preludes is the result of a collaboration organized by Campfire Poetry, a group that aims to promote collaborations between musicians and animators. The project began with the selection of T.S. Eliot's poem as the source material. Macrae was then invited to compose a one-minute musical soundscape that would serve as the foundation for Rankin's visuals.

What sets Preludes apart is its approach to storytelling. Rather than creating a linear narrative, Rankin chose to explore the themes and ideas of Eliot's poem through a series of thematically connected, yet visually distinct, scenes. The aim was to capture the essence of Eliot's non-narrative and slightly abstract form while providing a fresh perspective on our modern world.

The animation itself combines 2D and 3D elements, all composited in After Effects. Rankin utilized various plugins, including Video Copilot's Sabre, Rowbyte's Plexus, and Red Giant's Particular and Form, to bring the visuals to life. The result is a visually stunning and thought-provoking one-minute and eight-second animation that seamlessly weaves together Eliot's words and Macrae's music.

Throughout the animation, viewers are taken on a journey through different perspectives of our modern world. From aerial views that alienate us from the hustle and bustle of the streets to street-level scenes of faceless individuals absorbed in their screens, Preludes offers a glimpse into the complexities of contemporary living.

The project, which was started in December 2019 in New York City, was completed in February 2020. During the creative process, Rankin immersed himself in Eliot's poem and Macrae's soundtrack, seeking a deeper understanding of the themes, ideas, and symbols. This research allowed him to create visuals that added depth and density to the animation.

Preludes has received recognition for its innovative approach and artistic execution. In 2020, it was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Movie, Video, and Animation Design category. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate a high level of creativity, practicality, and innovation, while meeting professional and industrial requirements.

Preludes is a testament to the power of collaboration and the ability of art, music, and animation to come together to create a unique and captivating experience. Through its exploration of T.S. Eliot's poem, it invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of modern life and find moments of connection and meaning in the midst of chaos.