Animation is often associated with blockbuster films and digital effects, but some of the world’s most captivating moving images begin with paper, paint, clay, textiles and an artist’s patience.
Still Moves: Australian and International Animation brings this remarkable artform to Bayside Gallery from 5 September to 25 October 2026, showcasing award-winning handmade stop-motion works by leading artists from Australia, the United States and Taiwan.
Among them is Melbourne artist Cat Rabbit, whose interactive installations invite visitors to discover the magic behind every frame.
“The real magic of stop motion isn’t on the screen; it’s in the making. You can see the maker’s hand in everything,” Cat said.
“Every blink, every tiny movement is created by hand. I started out as a textile artist, and when I saw my first handmade character blink and move, it was a pivotal moment for me. I couldn’t stop watching.”
Known locally for the colourful mural that greets visitors at Hampton Library, Cat has created a felted television installation where visitors can ‘channel surf’ through a series of playful stop-motion worlds.
She is also designing a drop-in activity where children and families can create their own stop-motion animations, with their finished films screened in the gallery.
“I love pulling back the curtain because people realise stop motion isn’t this mysterious thing. When you break it down, it’s quite simple and something children can do. It just takes time,” Cat said.
The exhibition also features works by acclaimed artists Deborah Kelly, Alison Schulnik, Tjanpi Desert Weavers, Zhang Xu Zhan and Adam Elliot, with a recently remastered version of his Oscar-winning short film Harvie Krumpet.
“I hope people leave inspired to keep making things. Once their interest is piqued, they can tell stories with characters they’ve made themselves. The exhibition gives them the chance to come back and see their own animation screening in the gallery.” Cat said.
