An unfolding inquiry into the aesthetics of explicit nudity in 2D adult animation
Mitkus, Tomas (2024) An unfolding inquiry into the aesthetics of explicit nudity in 2D adult animation. PhD thesis, University for the Creative Arts.
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This thesis examines how explicit imagery can be used in 2D adult animation content to create engaging, mature stories. The thesis argues that 2D animation provides unique aesthetical solutions and options to tell mature and engaging stories that live-action medium simply cannot.
This study employs autoethnographic methodology with a reflection practice diary and animation tests as two main methods to gather rich data. This research approach was chosen so that the researcher could experience first-hand how cultural programming and the pressure of the Judeo-Christian moral value system affect animators who set themselves on the goal of creating explicit animated content with sexual overtones.
The inquiry’s starting point is an examination of the animation medium’s relationship with explicit imagery, with a focus on the development and growth of the adult animation segment. This is followed by the analysis of aesthetical applications in various adult animation sub-segments. The thesis then examines examples of explicit animated imagery in non-sexual, erotic, and pornographic content through such aesthetical concepts as motion, colour, appeal, stylisation, and exaggeration.
Textual analysis with empirical evidence has revealed how (mentally and emotionally) challenging it is for an animator from the Western cultural sphere to produce explicit erotic content. The emotional stress was felt and long-lasting. However, research showed that this taboo could be broken, but it requires substantial time investment and a strong will. The findings from animation tests indicate how 2D animation can extract the essence of beauty from explicit nudity and sexual intercourse. Finally, the thesis demonstrates how 2D aesthetics can serve to create unique, mature stories. This thesis concludes with a conversation about why erotica needs animation and animation needs erotica.
Thesis submitted in partial requirement for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, University for the Creative Arts, Farnham.
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