Looking Outwards 02 – Generative Art

Behind the childhood animation, ‘Curious George’, there is an untold love story of the authors Hans and Margret Rey. In celebration of the 75th anniversary of ‘Curious George’, filmmaker Ema Ryan Yamazaki decided to put together a mixed-media documentary that tells the love story of the authors. When I was a little girl, I absolutely enjoyed reading the series and watching the TV show. Before reading this artile, I did not know that the animation was created by two German immigrants who were also a married couple as well. Children would think nothing more of the series of ‘Curious George’. However, as adults, I think it becomes very important to learn where the inspiration of the animation comes from.

As the filmmaker explained how ‘Curious George’ was a reflection of their life experiences and personalities, I was very fascinated by the connection. It is amazing how one can bring a story to life through a creative animation. However, the process of creating this animation as well as incorporating the same style of ‘Curious George’ is a load of work. Since the project itself consists of 15,000 hand-drawn drawings, Yamazaki had been trying to raise the funds so that more people can help. To this very day, it still amazes me how a set of drawings can be transformed into a motion picture. As a filmmaker, Yamazaki’s artistic sensibilities was able to develop the idea of presenting the story of Hans and Margret Rey through their own style. Choosing the same style that was used for ‘Curious George’ creates such a strong connection because it gives everyone a reminder of the animation.