Welsh heritages could be preserved through scratch and sand animation

A collective of artists use new techniques to heritage and celebrate Welsh archive material. The project aims to raise younger generations awareness about film preservation.

Audience watching the screening of “Film from Scratch” at Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff.

Welsh archival films are being revitalized for for modern audiences through blending traditional methods with contemporary storytelling approach.

A group of artists employed scratch and sand animation techniques to preserve and celebrate fragile archival footage.

“Old films are fragile and can easily be lost if they’re not properly cared for,” said Gerald Conn. “This project helps young people understand their value and why preservation matters.”

Animator Gerald Conn discusses the purpose behind his creation.

The final work has been screened at Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff, offering audiences a visual journey through Wales past.

At the center of this effort is “Film from Scratch,” a short animated film that combines amateur cine clips with scratched animation, offering a fresh perspective on Welsh heritage. The cine clips in film are from the Wales National Screen and Sound Archive, aiming to highlights and preserve film for future generations.

The animation was developed through workshops that brought together young participants from local communities and animation undergraduates from the University of South Wales. They used 35mm celluloid film, scratching drawings directly onto its surface.

Participants in a workshop practice scratch animation techniques on 35mm film.

“We involved children and adults in creating these animations. They scratched on the film, learning the process and contributing to the preservation of history,” said Conn.

The project is led by Gerald Conn, managing director of Gritty Realism, an award-winning animator and filmmaker with over 20 years of experience. Conn’s work has been broadcast on Channel 4 and BBC and showcased at international film festivals.

This film’s themes include historical narratives, such as depictions of community life, festivals, and local craftsmanship, reflecting Wales cultural evolution. It also incorporates personal stories, exploring family connections and childhood memories captured in old footage.

“These films capture snapshots of Welsh life including its stories, celebrations, and challenges that deserve to be remembered,” said Conn.

Gerald Conn speaks to the audience during a Q&A session

Wales connection to animation can be traced back to the 1920s, when Sid Griffiths, widely regarded as the father of Welsh animation, created “Jerry the Troublesome Tyke.” This 2D hand-drawn, silent cartoon was Britain’s response to America’s Felix the Cat, which was the most popular animated character before Disney’s Mickey Mouse.

Wales animation industry has continued to grow, embracing new technologies while maintaining ties to its traditional roots. From early hand-drawn works to modern approaches such as scratch and sand animation, Welsh animators have consistently explored innovative ways to tell stories.