Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
FIG 6.3
Eye contact between
individuals may convey a great deal
of information. For animators this
is an important part of creating a
performance.
The scope for the expression of human emotion not only lies in an individual's
physical appearance but is also determined by that person's personality and
nature. We are all aware that some people are quicker to smile and laugh
than others, but it does not necessarily follow that they have a more friendly
disposition. However, we can often detect the insincere smile. It is easier to
smile by simply using facial muscles to stretch the lips into a grin, revealing
the teeth, but a true smile can be seen in the eyes.
In certain cultures it is a matter of respect to avert the gaze and to avoid
looking directly into an individual's eyes. However, in other cultures this
avoidance may be read as guardedness, and as a result the observer may be
critical of people who won't meet their gaze and engage in direct eye contact.
This behavior could be a sign, wrongly read, of distrust and suspicion. On
the other hand, individuals who stare into the face of another with unbroken
eye contact during communication may be seen to be intense, overbearing,
and strange, even by people from a culture where making eye contact is the
accepted norm.
