Georges Schwitzgebel: Armenian animation has great future

Georges Schwitzgebel is a Swiss animator known for his unique short films made using hand-drawn animation technique.

This year, he, along with several other world-famous animators, will evaluate short films presented as part of the 15th International Festival of Animated Films and Comics ReAnimania, in Yerevan.

Schwitzgebel held a master class at Yerevan State Institute of Theater and Cinema, where he talked about his creative process, demonstrated sketches, and explained the intricacies of his technique.

During the master class, the director shared also details about his new project, which he is working on this year. The new animated film, scheduled for release next year, will be longer than his already released works and will include two large scenes connected by a cyclical structure. The first part will be light and optimistic, whereas the second—darker and deeper. This project reflects Schwitzgebel's unique style, where abrupt cuts are replaced by continuous movement, creating a coherent visual narrative.

After the master class, STYLE.NEWS.am spoke with Georges Schwitzgebel about his traditional creative approach in technology, the ReAnimania festival, and Armenian animation in general.

You are known for continuing to use traditional hand-animation techniques despite the spread of digital technologies among the younger generation.

Today's students have to learn new technologies, and I myself sometimes visit schools to see how they work. I understand that the best way to learn is by example. But the most important thing is not the technique, but the idea, what you want to express. Do not forget about the technique; it is important, but it is only a tool. The main thing is how the artist uses this tool.

Your films often do not contain dialogues, which makes them especially expressive. Why do you think? Can animation without words be more effective in conveying emotions and ideas?

Animation without dialogues allows the viewer to immerse themselves in the culture through visual images. When you watch a film without words, you see everything; you don’t need to read subtitles or know the language. This allows you to concentrate on the details and understand the meaning more deeply. Of course, some of my films have dialogues, but in most cases I try to avoid them, as this enhances the perception and makes the film universal for any audience.

How did you like the atmosphere at the ReAnimania festival in Yerevan?

The atmosphere at the festival was wonderful! People waited for half an hour to get autographs; it was very nice. Yesterday we watched the first short film, which was only six minutes long, but it was very rich and impressive.

How do you think the ReAnimania festival helps young animators develop?

It is very important to see films from different countries. If you have already made a film, you need to show it in the context of other works, compare. When you start creating animation, participating in festivals plays a huge role, as it allows you to see the audience’s reaction, understand what works and what does not. This helps animators develop and improve.

Do you have a favorite Armenian animator or film that you are already familiar with?

Unfortunately, I am not familiar with any Armenian animators or directors yet. But I am sure there are many talented artists here, and I hope to discover their works in the future.

How do you assess the future of Armenian animation and the potential for cultural exchange between the countries?

I believe that Armenian animation has a great future. I was here in 2013 and saw how students have access to the latest technology and can learn animation from an early age. This is a huge potential for the industry to grow and develop. If young people have the opportunity to start at a young age, Armenian animation will definitely develop and contribute to international cultural exchange.