I was wondering if anyone ever tried using clones and layers as keyframe points on a timeline?

Each frame would be a combination on visible elements of changed, cloned objects, exported as a*. png sequence.

Naming each layer could not only describe the contents but maybe Time/Frame info?

Like in Gimp? I think it's something like that you described

When you're finished, save each layer in a separate file with  [File > Export...]  [Batch Export]  [Layers]  [Export]

Then go to Gimp.  [File > Open as Layers...]  [Filters > Animation > Playback]

Thanks. Looks like I need to spend some more time in Gimp.