BRETT LONG
The Animation Station:
A Year of Stop-Motion in the Burbank Sun
For the last year, I’ve been leading a project that aimed to do something a little different: bring stop-motion animation out of the isolation of the studio and into the public eye.
Supported by the Burbank Community Arts Grant Program, "The Animation Station" brought together a collective of 10 animators—from seasoned industry veterans to fresh talent—to animate the 26 letters of the alphabet in various public spaces across Burbank.
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The Journey
The goal was to give these artists total creative freedom and the flexibility to work on their own time. Because we moved the process outdoors, the project became a lesson in adaptation. Our animators had to overcome unique real-world obstacles, like chasing shifting sun patterns across their canvases and managing the elements, all while meticulously moving characters frame by frame.
By working in public, we were able to show our community the slow, beautiful craft that usually happens behind closed doors. Now, after a year of "guerrilla-style" animating, we are ready to show you the final result.
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Join Us for the Premiere
We’re hosting a screening of the final collective short film, and you’re invited! Come meet the animators, grab a drink, and celebrate the local talent that makes Burbank the animation capital.
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Lincoln Beer Company | 3083 N Lima St, Burbank
Screening starts at 8:00 PM (and will play on a loop throughout the night)
All ages welcome. Food and drinks available.
This project has been an incredible experience in building something from the ground up, and I can't wait to share it with you.

Seeking Stop-Motion Animators for the 2nd WAVE!
Seeking 8-12 talented animators for 'The Animation Station: 26 lower-case Letters of the Alphabet! This community-driven project invites you to create a unique, 5-15 second (estimate) stop-motion animation for a letter of the alphabet. Showcase your skills, get paid, and connect with other Burbank-based artists. Completed animations will be screened publicly and celebrated at a local event. Interested? Submit your portfolio and a short bio below!
Calling for Burbank Businesses
Are you a Burbank business owner passionate about supporting local talent and fostering a vibrant community? Do you believe in the power of creativity and innovation? If so, we invite you to partner with us on a unique project that will showcase the best of Burbank's artistic spirit.
We are seeking businesses to join us in celebrating the launch of "The Animation Station: 26 Letters of the Alphabet," a community-driven project that will bring together eight to 12 talented animators to create a series of captivating stop-motion animations, each representing a letter of the alphabet.
As a partner, your business will have the opportunity to:
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Showcase your support for local artists and the arts community.
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Gain exposure to a diverse audience of animation enthusiasts, families, and community members.
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Contribute to a project that celebrates Burbank's rich creative heritage.
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Enjoy exclusive benefits and recognition at the public screening event.
We believe that by working together, we can create a truly unforgettable experience that will inspire, entertain, and unite our community. If you are interested in partnering with us, please contact us using the form below!
Let's make Burbank a hub for creativity and collaboration!