Fedor Khitruk: A Look at Soviet Animation through the Work of One Master

This book is the first and long-awaited study of the directorial work of Fëdor Khitruk (1917–2012), an artist who formed in the tradition of classical cel animation only to break the conventions once he turned into a director. It reveals his mastery in the art of the moving image and his critical role as a director of films that changed the look of Soviet animation and its relation to the animation world within and beyond the Eastern Bloc.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 08 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book is a groundbreaking and eagerly awaited exploration of the directorial work of the animation maestro Fëdor Khitruk (1917–2012), an artist who emerged from the classical cel animation tradition only to defy conventions once he assumed the role of a director; a bridge between artists and authorities; a personality who championed the creation of daring films in the Soviet Union, a realm dominated by socialist realism; and a mentor and advocate for emerging artists who continued to carry forward his legacy long after the collapse of the Soviet empire.

Fëdor Khitruk: A Look at Soviet Animation through the Work of One Master unveils Khitruk's mastery in the art of motion pictures and his pivotal role as a director of films that revolutionized the aesthetics of Soviet animation and its relationship to the animation world within and beyond the Eastern Bloc. Drawing upon extensive archival research, personal interviews, published memoirs, and insightful analyses of Khitruk's production of films for both children and adults, this study is an essential read for scholars of Soviet art and culture, as well as enthusiasts of traditional animation art.

Khitruk's journey as an artist began in the early 1930s, when he enrolled in the prestigious Vkhutemas School of Art in Moscow. During his time there, he honed his skills in traditional animation techniques and developed a deep appreciation for the art form. However, it was his encounter with the avant-garde director Sergei Eisenstein that truly inspired Khitruk to push the boundaries of animation.

Eisenstein's films, such as Battleship Potemkin (1925) and October (1927), were known for their innovative use of montage and sound effects, and they had a profound impact on Khitruk's artistic vision. Khitruk was particularly drawn to Eisenstein's emphasis on the power of visual storytelling and his belief that animation could be used to convey complex ideas and emotions.

After completing his studies at Vkhutemas, Khitruk began working as a director at the Soyuzmultfilm studio in Moscow. There, he directed a series of films that were instrumental in shaping the look and feel of Soviet animation. One of his most notable films, The Snow Queen (1942), is considered a classic of Soviet animation and is renowned for its stunning visual effects and intricate storytelling.

In addition to his work as a director, Khitruk was also a prolific writer and illustrator. He published several books on animation and art, including The Art of Animation (1958), which became a standard reference for aspiring animators in the Soviet Union. Khitruk's books were not only popular among artists but also among the general public, and they helped to promote the appreciation of animation as an art form.

Khitruk's legacy as an artist and director continues to be felt today. His films have been screened at film festivals around the world, and his books have been translated into multiple languages. His influence on the animation world has been profound, and his work has inspired generations of artists and directors.

In conclusion, Fëdor Khitruk: A Look at Soviet Animation through the Work of One Master is a groundbreaking and essential exploration of the directorial work of a visionary artist who played a crucial role in shaping the aesthetics of Soviet animation and its relationship to the animation world. Through his mastery of the moving image, his role as a liaison between artists and authorities, and his promotion of daring films in a socialist realist-dominated era, Khitruk left an indelible mark on the animation world. This study is a must-read for scholars of Soviet art and culture, as well as enthusiasts of traditional animation art, and it provides a valuable insight into the creative process and the enduring legacy of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 144 x 223 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032022574