Remember when everyone jumped on the 3D bandwagon, pronouncing 2D animation dead?
Jokes on them!
While 3D had its moment, 2D not only survived, it rose from the ashes like a phoenix and is now hotter than ever.
From captivating business explainer videos to mesmerizing festival masterpieces, 2D animation is everywhere, dominating the scene with its unique magic.
Are you exicted?
Well you should because we're about to introduce you to 7 studios that will inspire, challenge, and make you fall in love with 2D all over again.
Watch, be amazed, and get ready to join the 2D revolution!
1. Yans Media
Bringing business ideas to life with 2D animation? Forget the stuffy suits, Yans Media 2d animation studio is the creative rebel you need.
They ditch the cookie-cutter approach and craft engaging 2D explainer videos and animations that win over businesses, from bootstrapped startups to industry giants.
Why?
They ditch the "one-size-fits-all" approach and laser-focus on crushing your business goals.
Need to simplify a complex product with a catchy explainer? Or maybe spice up B2B communications? Yans Media is on it, helping brands make some noise with their unique stories.
And the name-dropping?
It's impressive. Giants like VISA, Roche, LiveNation, CISCO, and UNAIDS are just a few who've teamed up with Yans Media.
2. Lighthouse Studios
Ever caught an episode of "Rick and Morty," found yourself lost in "The Cuphead Show," or spent a cozy afternoon with "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie"? Guess what? All these awesome shows come from the same creative powerhouse – Lighthouse.
Now, hold up. It's not just that they had a hand in the ideas or kicked off the first series. Nope. They're the magicians behind the scenes, pulling the strings and sprinkling their 2D animation magic on all these fan favorites.
But here's the kicker: Lighthouse is reletevly new name in 2d animation world. Launched in 2017, they've quickly become the talk of the town in the animation world. Making waves and shining bright, Lighthouse has become a beacon for aspiring creatives everywhere. Impressive, right?
3. Cartoon Saloon
So, there's this amazing animation studio in Dublin you might want to know about, especially if “Puffin Rock" rings a bell or you've marveled at the Academy Award-nominated "The Secret of Kells."
But the real jewel in their crown? "Song of the Sea."
This masterpiece didn't just win hearts; it etched Cartoon Saloon's name among the animation legends.
While Cartoon Saloon has a portfolio that would make any animation lover's heart skip a beat, "Song of the Sea" stands out as a must-see.
Whether you're diving deep into the world of 2D animation or just love a beautifully crafted cartoon, this is one for your list.
4. Studio Ghibli
Have you ever stumbled upon Studio Ghibli's magic? If not, oh how I envy the journey you're about to embark on!
Picture this: a studio that's been spinning tales since 1985, thanks to the genius of Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki. With twenty-two feature films to their name, these folks aren't just making cartoons; they're crafting legends.
Imagine combining Fellini's storytelling, Lucasfilm's cinematic magic, and Tarantino's unforgettable scenes, and then translating that into animation.
That's Studio Ghibli for you.
Mention "favourite animated film" to anyone in the creative world, and chances are, a Miyazaki masterpiece tops their list.
But here's the thing: Studio Ghibli doesn't just create movies. They weave entire universes, bursting with energy and galaxies of imagination, inspiring millions worldwide to create beauty of their own.
5. Mixtape Club
Next up on our list is a New York gem called Mixtapeclub, a 2D animation studio that's anything but ordinary.
You might be wondering, "What sets them apart from the rest?" Here's the scoop: they've carved out a unique niche by specializing in creating music videos for brands.
Yep, you heard that right.
This is the beauty of the modern creative landscape. Gone are the days when you needed to be a jack-of-all-trades, massive corporation. The real magic happens in these specialized, niche studios where authenticity and quality shine through.
Considering a music video for your brand? Mixtapeclub should definitely be on your radar. They're the masters of crafting catchy clips that capture your message and make it sing.
6. Duke & Duck
Rolling on to another standout, we've got Duke&Duck hailing from Washington DC. Since 2009, this studio has been all about crafting projects that truly stand out from the crowd.
Don't let their size fool you. Duke&Duck may be a cozy team, but their capabilities are anything but small. They're the versatile wizards of the 2D world, dabbling in everything from music videos and motion graphics to classic frame-by-frame sketches and jaw-dropping modern animations.
What makes Duke&Duck so special is their ability to blend the old with the new, creating animations that not only look amazing but also feel like a fresh breath of air in the animation scene.
7. AIM Creative Studios
Ever had a secret favorite, like an underground band you love so much you almost want to keep them all to yourself? That's exactly how I feel about AIM Creative Studios when it comes to the 2D animation scene. Tucked away in Porto, Portugal, this studio is a hidden gem that just keeps on dazzling.
What makes AIM stand out? It's hard to put into words. Their work is a kaleidoscope of colors, bursting with life, energy, and dynamism that leaves you wondering, "How do they even come up with these ideas?" Every project, whether it's educational material or motion graphics commercials, is a testament to their unparalleled creativity and brilliance.
AIM Creative Studios is that special find you stumble upon once in a blue moon, creating magic that simply captivates and leaves you in awe.
Honorable mentions
While our list has showcased some real standouts, the world of 2D animation is vast and filled with talent that constantly inspires and dazzles us.
It's not an exhaustive list by any means, but we've handpicked studios that shine in their unique ways.
Here's a shout-out to some animation giants that are definitely worth your attention, whether you're looking for inspiration, planning your next project, or just in search of some visual delight:
For stop-motion magic: Blind Pig
These guys bring characters to life with incredible detail and charm. Check out their work on "Coraline" for a peek.
For hand-drawn whimsy: Good Bad Habits
Their playful style and vibrant colors will brighten your day. Watch their music video for "Sweater Weather" for a feel-good fix.
For sleek, modern animation: Visorama
They push the boundaries of what 2D can do with their cutting-edge techniques. See their work on "Love, Death & Robots" for a mind-blowing experience.
For character animation brilliance: TMC
Their characters are full of life and personality. Watch their work on "Big Mouth" for some hilarious examples.
For a touch of the bizarre: Nerdo
They're not afraid to be weird and wonderful, and their work is always visually stunning. Check out their short film "Birdboy: The Forgotten Children" for something different.
For epic storytelling: Giant Ant
They tackle big themes with stunning visuals. Watch their work on "The Breadwinner" for a powerful story.
For retro vibes: Oddfellows
They have a knack for capturing the classic animation style with a modern twist. Watch their work on "Hilda" for a nostalgic adventure.
For all things illustration: ILLO
They connect brands with talented illustrators, often in 2D! Browse their website for inspiration.
For live-action and animation fusion: Buck
They seamlessly blend these two worlds to create unique and memorable visuals. Check out their work on Apple's "Shot on iPhone" campaign for a taste.
Final Words
So, there you have it! A glimpse into some incredible 2D animation studios around the globe.
Whether you're looking for stunning visuals, heartwarming stories, or just a dose of creative inspiration, these studios have something for everyone.
Remember, animation is an art form that continues to evolve and surprise. So, keep exploring, keep discovering, and never stop being amazed by the magic of 2D!