As we step into the mesmerizing world of animation by Theodore Ushev, where the boundaries of creativity are pushed to new frontiers! His latest masterpiece, “The Physics of Sorrow,” make us realize that there is still a lot of room for experimentation in animation as he defies all techniques. It has animation like no other, as it is the first ever created entirely using the encaustic painting technique – a true artistic marvel!
Encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting, involves blending pigment with heated wax, which is then applied to a surface to create a captivating painting. This ancient technique has never before been used to create animation, making Ushev’s endeavor a groundbreaking exploration of art and storytelling (NFB, 2019).
If you’re familiar with Ushev’s work, you might recall his earlier masterpiece, “Blind Vaysha,” which earned him an Oscar nomination in 2016. Born in Bulgaria in 1968, Ushev is no stranger to accolades and acclaim. However, “The Physics of Sorrow” takes his artistry to a whole new level, drawing inspiration from Geori Gospodinov’s book of the same name while infusing it with his own experiences and those of his father and friends.
The animation is a poignant portrayal of his generation’s struggles during the 1970s, a turbulent time in Bulgaria’s history. The film’s journey is deeply personal for Ushev, as it mirrors the stories of his life and his father’s, weaving a tapestry of emotions and memories that resonate with audiences worldwide.
To bring this visionary creation to life, Ushev hand-drew an astonishing 15,000 paintings for the animation, employing his revolutionary encaustic painting technique. The wax dries quickly, allowing for incredible flexibility in manipulating the medium. The process was an arduous one, requiring immense dedication and physical endurance. Ushev candidly admitted that the fast-paced nature of the work meant using both of his hands to create this mesmerizing animation.
Initially, the process was slow, with just one second of animation accomplished per day. However, Ushev’s determination and honed skills allowed him to increase his speed to an astonishing six seconds a day. Such an astounding feat demonstrates his unwavering commitment to his art, even in the face of physical challenges like the smell of beeswax that hindered long working hours.
The encaustic painting technique was a precious gift from his father, who was also an artist, and had a significant influence on Ushev’s creative journey. Sadly, his father passed away before the film’s completion, adding a bittersweet layer of emotion to the project. Drawing inspiration from ancient Egyptian practices of using paintings to preserve memories of the departed, Ushev found the encaustic technique to be the perfect medium for capturing the essence of life and memories in his animation (www.animationmagazine.net, n.d.).
“The Physics of Sorrow” is a testament to the power of innovation and originality in a world often saturated with repetitive ideas. Ushev’s unique approach to animation earned it rave reviews, with 12 nominations and 14 wins at various film festivals. This extraordinary achievement underscores the timeless value of traditional artistry and the recognition it can garner even in the digital age.
For artists like you, exploring works of art like “The Physics of Sorrow” serves as a wellspring of inspiration to infuse your practice with creativity and bring a fresh perspective to your animation journey. It reminds us that there are still uncharted territories waiting to be explored in the world of animation, inviting us to dare to dream and create beyond the boundaries of convention (Animation World Network, n.d.).
In a world where technology often reigns supreme, “The Physics of Sorrow” stands as a shining example that traditional approaches can still triumph and receive well-deserved acclaim. It encourages animators like you to embrace your unique vision and breathe new life into your craft, just as Theodore Ushev did with his groundbreaking encaustic painting animation.
References
- Animation World Network. (n.d.). Theodore Ushev: ‘The Physics of Sorrow,’ My Animated Time Capsule. [online] Available at: https://www.awn.com/animationworld/theodore-ushev-physics-sorrow-my-animated-time-capsule.
- NFB (2019). The Physics of Sorrow (Trailer). YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eenzK-QQoIk [Accessed 4 Dec. 2020].
- http://www.animationmagazine.net. (n.d.). You are being redirected… [online] Available at: https://www.animationmagazine.net/2019/11/bulgarian-memories-on-beeswax-theodore-ushevs-the-physics-of-sorrow/ [Accessed 30 Jul. 2023].
Arsalan Awais 