CEL Ā VIE 2

The second CEL Ā VIE exhibition expanded Mauer Gallery’s exploration of original Japanese animation art. Production cels and drawings were shown as physical works rather than memorabilia. Paint, pencil, registration holes, notes and traces of production remained visible. The exhibition moved freely between iconic characters and less familiar images, allowing technique and material to sit beside recognition and nostalgia. By slowing animation down into individual objects, CEL Ā VIE 2 created another kind of viewing experience, one where line, timing, correction and colour could be studied closely. It also reinforced a central part of Mauer’s programme: animation culture can be joyful, accessible and immediately recognisable while still deserving serious visual attention.