ABSTRACT
This paper explores the role of animation in enhancing urban sustainability by merging visual storytelling with the concept of mindscapes, the subjective perceptions of urban spaces. Through spatial narration, character development, and immersive environments, it investigates how animation strengthens the emotional connection between individuals and the built environment, fostering a more profound sense of place and belonging. The paper examines how animated narratives contribute to preserving and reinterpreting collective memory, enabling the reconstruction of cultural and historical urban experiences. Additionally, it highlights the social participation facilitated by animation, where audiences engage in dialogue on political and social issues and contribute to narrative co-creation through digital platforms and online communities. This paper synthesizes insights from architecture, urban studies, and animation to present a theoretical framework emphasizing animation’s transformative potential in reshaping urban narratives. It argues that animation not only enhances environmental awareness and sustainable behaviors but also democratizes the experience of urban environments, allowing diverse voices to participate in creating and interpreting urban narratives. This democratization empowers individuals and communities, making them feel included in the urban planning process. Through this lens, the paper demonstrates how animation can be vital in building more sustainable, inclusive, and emotionally engaging urban environments. This research employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating qualitative analysis of animation techniques, urban design theory, and cognitive psychology. Through case studies of animated works depicting urban environments, the study analyzes how visual storytelling elements—such as spatial narration, character development, and environmental design—contribute to collective memory, a sense of place, and social participation.