Arthur "Art" Clokey, a visionary pioneer in the realm of stop motion clay animation, embarked on a groundbreaking journey in 1955 with an innovative film experiment called Gumbasia, which was profoundly shaped by the influence of his esteemed professor, Slavko Vorkapich, at the University of Southern California, where he had the privilege of studying under the tutelage of this renowned expert in the field.
This pioneering endeavour established a profound basis for the conception of Gumby, a cherished and iconic character, jointly conceived by this visionary individual and his wife, Ruth, along with the faithful and loyal companion, Pokey. The dynamic duo has since become an indispensable and integral part of television's rich heritage, having made numerous appearances in various series, including their inaugural outing on the legendary Howdy Doody Show and subsequently, The Adventures of Gumby.
The endearing and iconic character of Gumby, a beloved figure in the world of animation, experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity during the 1980s, thanks in large part to a hilarious and memorable skit performed by the talented American comedian and actor Eddie Murphy on the esteemed television program Saturday Night Live. This clever parody, which masterfully captured the essence and charm of the character, served to reinvigorate interest in Gumby and paved the way for a new generation of fans to discover and fall in love with the lovable green creation. Furthermore, the release of Gumby: The Movie in the 1990s provided an additional catalyst for the character's enduring popularity, cementing his place as a timeless and iconic figure in the world of animation.
Person Biography:
Eddie Murphy is an American comedian, actor, and singer-songwriter, best known for his stand-up comedy routines and his numerous film roles, including the Beverly Hills Cop and The Nutty Professor franchises. Born on April 3, 1961, in Brooklyn, New York, Murphy began his career in the entertainment industry as a stand-up comedian, eventually landing a spot on Saturday Night Live in 1980. Throughout his career, Murphy has won numerous awards, including a Golden Globe Award and a Grammy Award, and has been recognized for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
Notable in addition to his groundbreaking work on the iconic and beloved character of Gumby, Clokey's equally impressive and influential creation is the dynamic duo of Davey and Goliath, a remarkable venture that was generously supported and funded by the Lutheran Church in America, a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring impact of his creative endeavors.
