Reuben “Rube” Goldberg (1883-1970) was known for his comic strips, political cartoons, and unique inventions. His most enduring legacy, however, is arguably the Rube Goldberg machine. Still bearing his name, these contraptions are often comical or playful due to their “overengineered” nature, using complex sequences of simple chain reactions like rolling ramps, weight and pulley systems, domino chains, and pendulum swings.
“Busy Bodies,” created by animator Kate Renshaw-Lewis, is a short film inspired by these straightforward yet intricate mechanisms. The animation presents an imaginative process for what seems to be the creation of red rubber gloves and the packaging of vague fish products. As tiny hat-wearing creatures—reminiscent of factory workers—complete their assigned tasks like clockwork, Renshaw-Lewis emphasizes “the mystery and absurdity behind how we get items that are so readily available to us,” she says.
The moving image is entirely hand-drawn, combining inkjet and screen printing techniques. Throughout the film a satisfying flow of tasks ensues, leading up to a climax that abstracts the visuals into shifting colors and outlines. This “under the hood” perspective provides viewers with a larger understanding of the painstakingly manual process behind the work.
Renshaw-Lewis’ film won the Grand Jury Prize for best animated short at Slamdance Film Festival, and it was nominated for Best Film at Sundance Film Festival. Watch more from the artist on Vimeo, and find some behind-the-scenes tidbits on Instagram.
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