Many of the first animated films created in the early 20th century featured the animator demonstrating his craft. The early animator's James Blackton, Emile Cohl, Max Fleischer, and Winsor McCay all appeared in their films. It wasn't that they were vain or needing the spotlight (well, maybe a little of that), but rather that the audience was fascinated by the

Winsor McCay busy at work in 1911. Winsor McCay (1869-1934) is one of the most revered artists from the 20th century.  McCay significantly influenced two art forms – comic strips and animation.  His comic strip, Little Nemo in Slumberland, is hailed as one of the most beautifully drawn strips.  His full-page, Sunday offerings were visual delights.  The following website provides a glimpse of McCay’s