Run Wrake (1963–2012) was an influential British animator and artist whose striking visual style left an indelible mark on the world of animation. Born in Yemen, where his father was stationed as a military chaplain, the family soon moved back to the UK, settling in East Sussex. This culturally diverse upbringing would later inform his eclectic and visually rich work.
Run achieved a degree in graphic design from the Chelsea School of Art, before attending the Royal College of Art in London, graduating in 1990 with a Masters in Animation. Influenced by the a post punk aesthetic and a love of music, Run's unique approach began to take shape—a fusion of montaged graphic design, line drawing and surreal humour. His work often incorporated found imagery, such as vintage educational illustrations and mid-century advertisements, which he manipulated into mesmerising, often unsettling animated collages.
With dozens of accredited films and promos to his name, it was his 2005 short film Rabbit that became his most celebrated work, garnering critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a BAFTA nomination. The film, a dark parable about greed and the commodification of nature, showcased Wrake's talent for blending striking visuals with thought-provoking themes. Using mid-20th century children’s textbook illustrations as a visual foundation, Rabbit is both nostalgic and subversive, delivering a moral message with a haunting, dreamlike quality.
Throughout his career, Wrake worked across various mediums and platforms, including music videos, commercials, and short films. He collaborated with prominent musical acts such as Howie B and U2, bringing his signature aesthetic to life in strikingly original ways. His work in commercial animation included projects for major brands, but he always maintained his artistic voice, infusing even commercial assignments with his avant-garde sensibilities.
Wrake’s artistic vision was rooted in his ability to juxtapose the familiar with the strange. His fascination with the aesthetics of the past, combined with an edgy, contemporary approach, created works that felt timeless and provocative. Despite his success, he remained deeply committed to pushing the boundaries of animation as an art form.
Tragically, Wrake's life was cut short in 2012 when he died of cancer at the age of 49. His work, however, continues to inspire animators and artists worldwide, celebrated for its daring originality and uncompromising vision. Wrake’s legacy is a testament to the power of animation as a medium capable of both artistic experimentation and profound storytelling.
Run chose to study graphic design rather than fine art because he believed it was inherently democratic, and his animation was distinguished by an engagement and creative collaboration with producers, music and musicians. His use and mastery of the animated loop was a visual parallel and complement to musical rhythm and structure. BFI Obituary
Throughout his career, Wrake worked across various mediums and platforms, including music videos, commercials, and short films. He collaborated with prominent musical acts such as Howie B and U2, bringing his signature aesthetic to life in strikingly original ways. His work in commercial animation included projects for major brands, but he always maintained his artistic voice, infusing even commercial assignments with his avant-garde sensibilities.
