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Direct to Film – 16mm Animation & Abstract Expression *

with Visiting Artist Chris Schultz

Explore the hands-on art of direct animation painting, scratching, and manipulating 16mm film to produce expressive, analog motion art—culminating in a vintage projector screening.

Dive into the world of analog filmmaking with this hands-on 16mm Direct Animation Workshop. Inspired by pioneers like Stan Brakhage and Norman McLaren, participants will create experimental animations by drawing, scratching, painting, and otherwise altering 16mm film leader by hand—no camera required. Rooted in the visual language of abstract expressionism, this process blends fine art and motion in a tactile, immediate way. The workshop includes discussion of the art historical context behind direct animation and culminates in a vintage 16mm projector screening of your work, with a 4K digital transfer provided for archival and sharing purposes.

About the presenter

Christian (Chris) Schultz received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from The University of Central Oklahoma in 2018 and his Master of Fine Arts from The University of Arkansas in 2021. Schultz has been featured in shows both nationally and internationally. Born in Oklahoma he now lives and works in Northwest Arkansas and is a current faculty member of The University of Arkansas School of Art and co-founder of Pond Gallery in downtown Fayetteville, AR. Schultz has also founded an independent game studio, Stone House Studio, focused on the development of tabletop and card games. Schultz's work covers a variety of media including works on paper, video and animation and object making. Themes explored within current work include the ephemeral nature of time alongside the lightheartedness of play. These themes come together through a practice of world building with a current focus on the exploration of virtual worlds and the environment of his childhood backyard.

Over the course of his residency Chris will continue work on an extensive hybrid animation project titled Hello - From Mt. Kasuga. This short uses physical animation techniques alongside digital and hybrid elements. The work is a result of a month-long research endeavor into the ecology of the Primeval forest of Mount Kasugayama located in Nara Japan. Themes of the animated film include ecological conservatism, sustainability, preservation in the face of development while balancing the elements of play, curiosity and a leaning towards a hopeful future. Through speculative means the work questions what a future of balance looks like between humans and nature. Classes Chris will lead during his time as a visiting artist include stop motion and 16mm direct animation.

All abilities are welcome. For disability accommodations, call 479.856.7050 or email centerforinnovation@faylib.org 2-3 days before a program. Plan your visit by viewing our building map and details on accessibility services.

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