JonA True American Animation Pioneer
Lou Scheimer (1928-2013) was the Emmy Award winning co-founder of Filmation Studios. Under his direction, Filmation became an energizing force in children’s programming, leaving an indelible mark on a generation of young viewers. At a time when many animation studios were outsourcing production overseas, Filmation was one of the few that kept its animation done entirely in the USA, creating a unique identity for itself. This commitment to domestic production not only supported American animation talent but also ensured that Filmation maintained full creative control over its iconic shows. He paved the way for animation in syndication with “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe”, empowering kids across the globe with imagination and pro-social messaging.
On Saturday, November 12, 2011, the city of Pittsburgh paid tribute to a legendary figure in the world of animation by declaring it Lou Scheimer Day. This extraordinary recognition was accompanied by a special dedication at the ToonSeum, Pittsburgh’s renowned museum of comic and cartoon art, which unveiled its latest addition—the Lou Scheimer Gallery.
Scheimer grew up in Pittsburgh’s Homewood neighborhood and attended Carnegie Mellon University before moving to Los Angeles to co-found Filmation Associates. The proclamation of Lou Scheimer Day served as a testament to the profound impact that Scheimer had on the animation industry. As a co-founder of Filmation, an animation studio that played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Saturday morning cartoons, Scheimer became a driving force behind beloved animated series that captured the hearts of audiences around the world.
The ToonSeum’s decision to christen its new gallery in honor of Lou Scheimer further underscores the animator’s enduring legacy. The Lou Scheimer Gallery, a testament to his creative genius, was a space dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of comic and cartoon art. Visitors could immerse themselves in the vibrant world of animation and gain a deeper understanding of Scheimer’s contribution to the industry.
Scheimer, who passed away in 2013, left behind a remarkable body of work that continues to resonate with fans of all ages. From iconic shows like “Fat Albert” to “The Archies” to “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe” to “She-Ra: Princess of Power,” Scheimer’s influence extended far beyond the small screen. His commitment to storytelling and innovation made him a trailblazer in the realm of animated entertainment and Filmation kept all animation work in house in the United States whereas other popular animation companies were sending their work overseas. The
ToonSeum’s celebration on Lou Scheimer Day not only honored the man himself but also highlighted the importance of preserving the history of animation. The gallery stands as a tribute to Scheimer’s enduring impact on the art form, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and be inspired by his groundbreaking contributions. In commemorating Lou Scheimer Day, Pittsburgh not only recognized a visionary animator but also solidified its commitment to the arts and cultural heritage.
The Lou Scheimer Gallery at the ToonSeum stood as a living testament to the power of animation to shape our imaginations and bring joy to audiences of all ages. Unfortunately, the ToonSeum closed its physical location in Pittsburgh in 2018. This is our memorial to the legend and his gallery.
