After5Chicago - Hidden History of Animation: Culture, Control and Evolution

Join a university animation instructor for Hidden History of Animation: Culture, Control and Evolution, a historical overview of animation, tracing its evolution from its earliest beginnings to the present day. It examines how animated content has shifted in response to its intended audience, with particular attention to the strange and often surreal qualities of 1920s and 1930s animation.

We’ll explore how the introduction of censorship especially the self-imposed Production Code of 1934 reshaped animation into a moral, child-focused medium, largely delivered through the rise of home television. The lecture then follows a major shift in the 1980s, as animation began returning to its broader roots with the emergence of adult-oriented content through platforms like MTV and shows like The Simpsons, reinforcing the idea that cartoons are not just for children.

Finally, we’ll examine today’s era of adult animation where audiences are increasingly desensitized, and content often pushes boundaries to shock, provoke, and reflect societal issues. In this landscape, censorship may have unintentionally fueled a style of humor and storytelling that thrives on excess, with platforms like Adult Swim and shows like South Park remaining more relevant than ever.

Don’t miss this chance to learn more about the history of your favorite animated TV shows, while having an empowered way of connecting with others with your After5Society.

About the Speaker:

Michele Carter is an instructor at DePaul University and Triton College and has been teaching Animation, History, and Digital Painting for 12 years. She holds an MFA in Animation and recently completed an MA in Communications and Digital Media. In addition to teaching, she exhibits paintings in galleries around Chicago, runs TTRPGs at conventions and for friends, and completes freelance motion graphics work, and mask painting for martial artists. Her next career goals include completing a book on either animation and history, or slasher film influences during the 1970s. A previous life as a bartender ties her back to the bar community with a love of beer, cocktails, and spirits.

Good to know before you come:

• Exact bar location will be disclosed in your confirmation email
• Arrive early to grab a drink and get settled
• The speaker portion lasts 1 hour, with optional time to stay and socialize afterward
• This is a participatory event
• Seating is limited to keep the experience intimate

Info: Arrive early to grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy the atmosphere. Early birds get the best seats and a head start on mingling!

Info: Dive into an engaging, interactive session with our speaker. Participate, observe, or simply soak it all in - it's your experience to enjoy.

Info: Stick around to chat with fellow attendees, swap ideas, or just relax with a drink. Great conversations often happen after the main event!

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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