Rediscovering the Art of Interactive Design with 2Advanced Studios

From Flash to the future, we dive deep with interactive design legends Eric and Tony of 2Advanced Studios.

For many seasoned creatives (read: old), the name 2Advanced Studios brings a wave of nostalgia from the golden age of Flash—a time when interactive web design was reshaping the internet. In the latest School of Motion Podcast, Joey sits down with Eric Jordan and Tony Novak, the visionaries behind this legendary studio. They explore their groundbreaking work, hard-earned lessons, and what the future holds for motion designers in today’s rapidly changing digital world.

The Site That Changed Everything

Flash wasn’t just a tool; at the time, it really was a creative revolution. Eric and Tony share how they used it to craft stunning, interactive experiences that were lightyears ahead of other early 00's websites. But as quickly as Flash rose, its decline brought challenges that reshaped their careers—and digital design as a whole.

The Flash-based website that inspired a generation of designers, circa 2021:

Creativity Beyond the Client Brief

After the decline of Flash, the duo pivoted to projects that let them push boundaries without client constraints. The result? A rediscovery of joy in design and animation. Their insights on balancing creative freedom with professional work will resonate with any designer chasing that next big idea.

2Advanced's 2024 return:

A New Era of Interactive Motion Design

Interactive design isn’t dead—it’s evolving. Eric and Tony share their excitement about tools like Rive, which bring interactivity back into the spotlight. With its innovative state machine workflows, Rive offers motion designers a way to merge animation and storytelling, echoing the creative spark of the Flash era with modern possibilities. Psst...if you're interested in learning Rive, be sure to check out our newest course: Rive Academy Vol. 1.

Remaking 2Advanced Studios' iconic site with Rive, circa 2024:

This episode covers all that and more. Whether you’re a seasoned motion designer or just starting your journey, tune in for inspiration, a lil history, and a vision for the future of interactive design.