Zoetrope Animation Is Back. Here’s How to Make One
Zoetrope animation is making a comeback with a modern twist on the 19th-century technology. Artists are incorporating zoetropes into vinyl records, creating animated loops that come to life when viewed correctly. This optical illusion relies on the persistence of vision and the phi phenomenon, which trick our brains into perceiving movement in still images.
The zoetrope is just one of many animation devices invented before the era of films. These hand-rotated gadgets, such as the thaumatrope, praxinoscope, and phenakistoscope, all used similar principles to create the illusion of movement through rapidly changing images. The zoetrope, in particular, has become synonymous with physical animation devices in general.
The key to creating animation with a zoetrope lies in the afterimage that remains in our visual system for a fraction of a second. By presenting a series of images in rapid succession with brief interruptions, our brains fill in the gaps and perceive continuous movement. This is why a zoetrope requires at least six still images per second and short breaks between each image to create a seamless animation.
To make your own zoetrope at home, you’ll need simple materials like paper, a pencil, tape, and a circular base. By sketching out an animation sequence on a paper strip, cutting viewing slits between each frame, and spinning the strip on a circular base, you can create your own animated illusion. Experiment with different speeds and poses to achieve the desired effect.
You can also get creative and make a zoetrope out of everyday objects like cardboard, disposable plates, or even a pumpkin. By following the same principles, you can craft a phenakistoscope using a disk and mirror instead of a cylinder. These DIY animation toys offer a fun and educational way to explore the magic of early animation technology right in your own home.
