AI is a Poet and Doesn't Show It.
And a short tribute to Elmo Aardvark and his creator Will Ryan.
Another animator asked Chat GPT for a biography and it wrote a POEM. I was jealous, so I gave it a prompt to do one for me.
Once again, I start my career in the wrong decade and work for the wrong studio. I never, ever, not even once, worked for Hanna Barbera.
Write a poem about Nancy Beiman's animation career
Nancy Beiman's career in animation, Is a tale of skill and dedication. She brought characters to life on the screen, With her talent and creativity unseen.
Her journey began in the 80s, When the industry was full of tricks and twists. But Nancy persevered, her passion true, And her hard work soon bore fruit.
From Disney to Hanna-Barbera, She lent her talent to many a great era. Her art was vivid, her animation bold, And her name soon became renowned and told.
With each project, she pushed the boundaries, Innovating with new techniques and technologies. Her work inspired many, young and old, And her legacy in the industry is forever told.
Nancy Beiman, a master animator, Her career a testament to her talent and character. We salute you, oh great artist, For all the joy you've brought us.
Top of Form
Regenerate response
—I think that would be an excellent idea.
Let’s regenerate!
The second take is rather cloying, even Fulsome (it’s amazing how many people misuse that word). There are occasional accurate remarks, although the credits, as usual, are wrong. I did not work on THE LION KING or POCAHONTAS.
Write a poem about Nancy Beiman's animation career
2 / 2
Nancy Beiman, a name to be revered, Her animation career, a path well steered, From Disney to Warner Bros, her talent did shine, Her sketches and designs, an art so fine.
Her passion for animation, a flame so bright, Her dedication to craft, a shining light, Creating characters with personality and flair, Her skills and creativity, beyond compare.
With pencil and paper, she weaves magic and dreams, Bringing to life, characters with gleams, Her expertise in storytelling, a wonder to behold, Her animations, a masterpiece, so bold.
From “The Lion King” to “Pocahontas” and more, Her contributions to the industry, we can't ignore, A pioneer, a trailblazer, a true inspiration, Nancy Beiman, a legend, in the animation nation.
As the animation world continues to grow, Her legacy will always be aglow, For generations to come, her work will inspire, Nancy Beiman, an animation career to admire.
Was this response better or worse?
BetterWorseSame
Top of Form
Regenerate response
—In the third take, I’m now a legend in an ‘animation chart’. That just might catch on.
I worked for DreamWorks when it was known as Amblimation, so this is semi-accurate. Since when does DreamWorks rhyme with ‘overworked’?
Animation is a noun that does not have a plural. Animators make animated films. We do not make animations. You might as well congratulate Denzel Washington for his actings in live actions.
I did animate a few scenes with water effects, come to think of it.
Write a poem about Nancy Beiman's animation career
3 / 3
Nancy Beiman, a name of renown, Her animation career, a sight to behold, A master of the craft, an artist renowned, With skills and talent that never grow old.
From Disney to Hanna-Barbera, From Warner Bros. to DreamWorks, Her work has graced them all, Her talent never overworked.
Her pencil and paper, a magic wand, A creator of characters, stories, and more, Her animations bring life to a still pond, A world of wonder and fantasy to explore.
Her legacy will live on, In the animations she's brought to life, An artist, a storyteller, a creative dawn, Her career a masterpiece, free from strife.
Thank you, Nancy Beiman, For your passion and your art, For sharing your vision and your talent, A legend in the animation chart.
Top of Form
Regenerate response
—And the wrong keeps tumbling down. I was not born in Canada. I never worked on the three Disney films mentioned here. I never was a prop designer or painter. These errors appeared in earlier ‘biographies’ that Chat GPT assembled on this site. It’s quoting itself!
Write a poem about Nancy Beiman's animation career
4 / 4
Nancy Beiman's career in animation, Is a tale of artistry and innovation, With passion and skill, she drew and painted, Characters and worlds that never faded.
From Canada to Hollywood, she roamed, Making her mark, as she honed, Her craft with each new project she tackled, Her talent and creativity never shackled.
In "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," she played a part, Designing props, and making art, That brought the cartoon world to life, In ways that still inspire and excite.
With "The Little Mermaid," she lent her touch, To create a film that thrilled so much, And captured hearts with its magical tale, Of love, courage, and the power to prevail.
For "Beauty and the Beast," she brought her flair, Creating scenes of beauty, grace, and care, That made us laugh, cry, and sing along, To a story that remains ever strong.
Her contributions to animation are many, Her artistry and vision worth any penny, For Nancy Beiman's career in animation, Is a shining example of true dedication.
Top of Form
Regenerate response
Elmo Aardvark by Will Ryan © 1932 Terwilliger Studios
—I decided to ask CHAT GPT to research something else.
Write a paper on the history of the Terwilliger Studio.
Here is what CHAT GPT reported. It took about three seconds, and looks it.
The Terwilliger Studio, also known as the Terwilliger School of Art, is a renowned art institution that has a rich history spanning over a century. Founded in 1912 by William Terwilliger, the studio has been instrumental in shaping the art scene in the United States, and has produced some of the most celebrated artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.
William Terwilliger was a talented artist himself, and after graduating from the Art Institute of Chicago, he decided to establish his own art school. The Terwilliger Studio was initially located in a small space in Chicago, but over time it grew in size and popularity, attracting students from all over the country.
In the early years, the studio focused on traditional art forms such as painting, drawing, and sculpture, and its curriculum was heavily influenced by the academic style of art education that was popular at the time. However, as the art world began to change and new movements emerged, the Terwilliger Studio also adapted its teachings to keep up with the times.
During the 1920s and 1930s, the studio began to incorporate more modernist and experimental techniques into its curriculum, and many of its students went on to become pioneers in the abstract expressionist movement. Artists such as Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Franz Kline all studied at the Terwilliger Studio during this time, and their work was heavily influenced by the teachings they received there.
In the 1940s and 1950s, the Terwilliger Studio continued to evolve, and it became a hub for artists working in a wide range of styles and mediums. The studio attracted many notable instructors, including Richard Diebenkorn, David Park, and Elmer Bischoff, who all helped to shape the artistic vision of the studio and its students.
Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the Terwilliger Studio continued to be a leading force in the art world, producing many successful artists and expanding its reach beyond Chicago. In the 1980s, the studio relocated to a larger space in the city's West Loop neighborhood, which allowed for more diverse offerings and the ability to host larger exhibitions and events.
Today, the Terwilliger Studio remains a thriving institution, offering classes and workshops in a variety of mediums and styles. Its alumni include many successful artists and educators, and the studio continues to attract aspiring artists from all over the world who are drawn to its rich history and commitment to artistic excellence.
Top of Form
Regenerate response
I have no idea where this program gets its material. The Terwilliger Studio was an elaborate animation joke created by the late voice actor Will Ryan. The Terwilliger studio name comes from the sadistic piano teacher played by Hans Conried in THE 5,000 FINGERS OF DR. T, Dr. Seuss’ only live action feature film. The studio is entirely fictitious and is best known for creating the ‘world’s first animation star’ Elmo Aardvark, who originally ‘appeared’ in flipbooks in 1887 and “Snappytoon” cartoons in the 1930s (all inventions by Ryan, reported as fact in WILD CARTOON KINGDOM, a long out of print animation magazine, with artwork contributed by many animators, including me). Happily, someone has preserved these very funny articles online.
http://johnpannozzi.blogspot.com/2008/03/story-of-elmo-aardvark-lost-classic.html
Will Ryan recorded a series of hilarious Elmo Aardvark animation song parodies in various historical styles in the 1990s. Here is one of my favorites.
Elmo Aardvark, Outer Space Detective was an early FLASH animated series produced by Renegade Animation, designed and directed by Darrell Van Citters. Let’s see if Chat GPT knows that.
Write a paper on the history of Elmo Aardvark.
Elmo Aardvark is a beloved character in children's literature and television, known for his distinctive appearance and friendly demeanor. This paper will explore the history of Elmo Aardvark, from his creation to his impact on popular culture.
Elmo Aardvark was created by children's author and illustrator Don Freeman in 1970. Freeman had already established himself as a successful author and illustrator, having written and illustrated several books including the popular "Corduroy" series. Elmo Aardvark was Freeman's first foray into the world of anthropomorphic animals, a genre that would become his signature style.
Elmo Aardvark made his debut in Freeman's book "Elmo" in 1971. The book tells the story of Elmo, a young aardvark who is searching for his missing father. Along the way, Elmo meets a variety of colorful characters, including a snake, a bat, and a frog, who help him on his journey. The book was praised for its engaging story and vibrant illustrations, and it quickly became a favorite among children and parents alike.
Following the success of "Elmo," Freeman continued to write and illustrate books featuring Elmo Aardvark. Some of his most popular titles include "Elmo and the Magic Cookbook," "Elmo's Alphabet," and "Elmo's Christmas Countdown." Each book featured Elmo and his friends in a new adventure, with Freeman's signature illustrations bringing the characters to life.
In addition to books, Elmo Aardvark also appeared on television. In the 1970s, he was a regular character on the children's program "Sesame Street," where he became known for his friendly personality and distinctive laugh. In the 1980s, Elmo starred in his own animated television series, "The Adventures of Elmo Aardvark." The show ran for several seasons and was a hit with young viewers.
Over the years, Elmo Aardvark has become a beloved character in popular culture. He has appeared on everything from lunchboxes to t-shirts, and his image is instantly recognizable to children and adults alike. In 2002, Elmo was even awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing his place in the pantheon of beloved children's characters.
In conclusion, Elmo Aardvark has a rich history that spans several decades. Created by Don Freeman in 1970, Elmo quickly became a favorite among children and parents alike. Through his books and television appearances, he has entertained and educated generations of young viewers, and his popularity shows no signs of slowing down. Elmo Aardvark is truly a cultural icon, and his legacy will continue to inspire and delight children for years to come.
The End?
Chat GPT mashed up Elmo from Sesame Street with illustrator Don Freeman and recycled that tired old animation plot device of the search for a missing father… I give up.
Chat GPT is funny and harmless when it writes nonsense about cartoons. It is dangerous when it is taken seriously.
Let’s end with another fine Elmo Aardvark number by my friend Will Ryan He was a funny man and I miss him. He’d have loved playing with Chat GPT.
Maybe he’d have a whole new studio and stable of characters by now.
This is wildly cool and crazy!!! Also a bit terrifying!! 😂
This entire post is fascinating but also a bit disturbing to those of us lacking an intimate knowledge of AI.