Joan C. Gratz

Joan C. Gratz, the mastermind of mesmerizing clay paintings in motion. Born in 1941 in Los Angeles, United States, Gratz became an active filmmaker from 1966, predominantly focusing on the genres of animation and short films. Her groundbreaking works include Mona Lisa Descending a Staircase which won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film in 1992, and her unique style is characterized by a technique she pioneered, known as "clay painting", which seamlessly blends colors and images. Beyond her incredible technical prowess, Joan C. Gratz stands as a testament to the power of creativity, her work a reminder that art and animation know no bounds.