Project Description:
The idea behind my project is to create a story-based script exploring the history of Gdańsk. This material will form the basis for a 15-20 minute stop-motion animated film, accompanied by a series of 10 paintings and a set of postcards featuring selected illustrations—frames from the animation.
The project aims to produce an animated film that narrates the history of Gdańsk from the Middle Ages to the modern era. The film will weave together historical facts and mythical tales. Its foundation will be an essay-story based on little-known historical facts connected to both renowned and lesser-known sites and artifacts, such as Hans Memling’s altarpiece, as well as iconic figures who lived in Gdańsk, including Günter Grass, Johannes Heveliush, and Daniel Chodowiecki, among others.
The script will be written and later recorded with a mix of humor and serious elements to create a light-hearted, educational, and unforgettable atmosphere. Developing the text and script will involve consultations with historians, guides, and cultural experts from Gdańsk.
The animation process will involve creating approximately 12,000 painted frames. The best frames will be used to produce a set of postcards (about 25 pieces) featuring Gdańsk themes. Additionally, a series of 7-10 paintings (90×100–140 cm), inspired by the project, will be created and presented in an art gallery.
The project will be realized in Gdańsk, at Al. Grunwaldzka. The timeline is three months, from May 1 to August 30, 2024, extended by an annex to November 30, 2024.
Project Implementation:
Presentation of the project at the Baltic Sea Cultural Center in Gdańsk
Film 1: “ABOUT BEER, STARS, AND KINGS”
“From the History of Gdańsk. Selected Stories.”
Text and narration: Mateusz Sora
Paintings, animation, editing, and music: Serhiy Savchenko
Production: SVS & S~O
This animated film is based on a story written by Mateusz Sora, a historian and social activist. It recounts historical events from 18th-century Gdańsk and highlights the life and achievements of the renowned scientist, astronomer, and Gdańsk native Johannes Hevelius. The story is narrated by the author himself, adding authenticity and depth.
Watch here: https://youtu.be/f3cJpKF2afY
Film 2: “OUR MAN OF THE ENLIGHTENMENT”
“From the History of Gdańsk. Selected Stories.”
Text and narration: Arkadiusz Onasch
Concept, paintings, animation, editing: Serhiy Savchenko
Music: AI
Production: SVS & S~O
The second film in the series, titled “Our Man of the Enlightenment”, is based on a story by Arkadiusz Onasch, a Gdańsk native, restaurateur, and host of the excellent Gdańsk restaurant Winne Grono and the Gdańsk Historical Flavors Workshop. This latest work was created with the support of the City of Gdańsk as part of the second edition of the Gdańsk Cultural Grant program.
Watch here: https://youtu.be/gB3Eb8ddb0c
Film 3: “ABOUT TEUTONIC KNIGHTS, PRUSSIANS, AND THE QUEENS OF THE NIGHT”
“From the History of Gdańsk. Selected Stories.”
Written and narrated by: Andreas Kasperski
Concept, paintings, animation, editing: Serhiy Savchenko
Music: SS & SEEN
Production: SVS & S~O
This animated film tells the story of historical events in Gdańsk during the time of the Teutonic Knights and Prussians, along with fascinating details about the nightlife of the medieval city. Written and narrated in a light, engaging storytelling style by Andreas Kasperski, a Gdańsk native and tour guide.
Watch here:
Painting Works:
Animation Process – Backstage:
Watch here
Postcards and Prints:
Original Paintings and Frames from the Animation:
