The Chronicle of Philanthropy:
They Say America Is Hopelessly Divided.
What If They’re Wrong
Role: Art Direction, Design, Motion Design, Edit, Sound.
They Say America Is Hopelessly Divided. What If They’re Wrong?
Research points to common ground on controversial issues, the country’s priorities, and America’s values — terrain from which nonprofits and philanthropy can work for change.
Through The Commons, the Chronicle of Philanthropy has explored the country’s divisions. As we’ve talked to advocates, funders, and experts working to strengthen fractured communities, one observation underscores almost every conversation. The divisions in America are not nearly as great as we think.
To bring this message to life, De Los Angeles Studio collaborated with the Chronicle of Philanthropy, using motion design and art direction to translate complex ideas into a visually engaging and accessible explainer. Under the guidance of Drew Lindsey and his team, we crafted a seamless fusion of design & animation that transformed the written narrative into a dynamic, thought-provoking visual experience.
They Say America Is Hopelessly Divided.
What If They’re Wrong?
ERT: 1 min
Crafting a Contemporary Explainer
The collage-style execution, restrained color palette, and dynamic compositions create a contemporary and editorial feel, perfectly suited for informative storytelling.
Every design choice supports the explainer’s message: challenging perceptions of division and revealing hidden unity. The juxtaposition of fractured imagery with cohesive elements (people working together, unified colors) subtly reinforces the theme.
The imagery shifts from fractured, tense visuals (political division, debates) to collaborative, optimistic imagery (community efforts, shared experiences), creating an emotional arc that resonates with the audience.
Motion Design
The stop-motion-inspired animation approach makes the explainer feel handcrafted, editorial, and analog, rather than overly polished and digital. This aesthetic aligns perfectly with the content’s documentary-style storytelling, giving it authenticity, warmth, and a tactile presence that draws the viewer in while reinforcing the theme of human connection.
Early Style-Frames
Credits
Design & Animation: De Los Angeles Studio
Commissioned by: The Chronicle of Philanthropy