Gumby
Overview
Gumby is a green clay humanoid character created by Art Clokey in the early 1950s. The character gained significant popularity through a series of stop-motion animated television shows and specials. Gumby is characterized by his unique, flexible body and his ability to transform into various shapes, making him a versatile and enduring figure in the world of animation.
Creation and Development
Gumby was first introduced to the public in 1953 through a short film titled "Gumbasia," which was a parody of Walt Disney's Fantasia. Art Clokey, the creator, was inspired by his professor, Slavko Vorkapich, at the University of Southern California. Vorkapich's teachings on motion and form had a profound impact on Clokey, leading him to experiment with clay animation.
The character's design was influenced by Clokey's childhood experiences and his fascination with the fluidity and flexibility of clay. Gumby's distinctive green color was chosen to stand out on black-and-white television screens, and his slanted head was inspired by a photograph of Clokey's father.
Television Series
The first Gumby television series premiered on NBC in 1955. The show featured Gumby and his sidekick, Pokey, a talking orange pony. The series was notable for its innovative use of stop-motion animation and its imaginative storytelling. Episodes often involved Gumby and Pokey embarking on adventures in various fantastical settings, such as outer space, medieval times, and fairy tale worlds.
The show's success led to the production of additional episodes and specials throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Gumby's popularity also extended to merchandise, including toys, books, and clothing.
Animation Techniques
Gumby is renowned for its pioneering use of stop-motion animation, a technique that involves photographing clay models frame by frame to create the illusion of movement. This labor-intensive process requires meticulous attention to detail and precise manipulation of the clay figures.
Art Clokey and his team used a variety of materials and techniques to bring Gumby to life. The characters were made from a special type of clay called Plasticine, which is pliable and easy to mold. The sets and backgrounds were constructed from a combination of clay, cardboard, and other materials.
The animation process involved creating a storyboard, designing the characters and sets, and then animating each frame by hand. This painstaking work resulted in a unique and visually captivating style that set Gumby apart from other animated shows of the time.
Cultural Impact
Gumby has had a lasting impact on popular culture and has been referenced in various forms of media over the years. The character's distinctive appearance and playful personality have made him an enduring icon.
In the 1980s, Gumby experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to reruns of the original series and a new wave of merchandise. The character also made appearances on shows like "The Simpsons" and "Saturday Night Live," where comedian Eddie Murphy famously portrayed a parody of Gumby.
Gumby's influence can also be seen in the world of animation, where the character's innovative use of stop-motion techniques has inspired countless animators and filmmakers.
Legacy
Art Clokey continued to work on Gumby-related projects until his death in 2010. His contributions to the field of animation have been widely recognized, and Gumby remains a beloved figure in the world of children's entertainment.
In recent years, there have been efforts to preserve and restore the original Gumby episodes, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the character's adventures. Additionally, new Gumby content has been produced, including a feature-length film and various digital media projects.