Sharjah Animation Conference a world with a difference
SHARJAH: The journey from fun scribbling on paper (or tablets nowadays) to doodling, and eventually animating, oten requires a small dose of inspiration along with the right advice from professionals. The second edition of the Sharjah Animation Conference at the Expo Centre Sharjah offers all of this and a deep dive into the creative and vibrant world of animation.
The conference is a must-visit for both aspiring and well-established animators, students of all ages, and anyone who enjoys animation.
For Hayyan Harmann, a visitor on the first day of the conference, this event is a dream come true. It offers him a chance to meet some of the biggest names in the industry and learn from the best. “Animation is a burgeoning space in the Middle East, and I am really thrilled about the prospects. I am looking forward to sessions by Nik Ranieri, Andrea Bozzeto, and many other luminaries from the industry,” said Harmann, who is also excited about networking with some of the producers to explore ways to advance his career in this field.
Phoenix Enriquez, another 2D animator attending the conference, arrived early and settled into one of the cosy spots created for visitors in the conference hall. Immersed in his art on his ipad, Phoenix said he attended the conference last year as well. “I am excited to be here and hear from the best. There are so many new tools and so much talk of AI taking over, but hearing from industry professionals helps cut through the noise and allows artists like me to focus on their strengths.”
Visitors of all ages continued to pour in on the first day of the conference through the vibrant blue tunnel entrance, which opened to a large hall with neatly spaced sections.
From the ‘Shaun the Sheep’ section where litle ones can scribble on a large white wall and leave their mark, to the innovation lab, sketch area, and creative hub for workshops and panel discussions, plus a section for producers from various studios, there is something for everyone.
Running until May 6, this first-of-its-kind event in the region features more than 50 internationally acclaimed speakers, over 25 workshops, 20 talks, and six panel discussions. There will also be three music concerts over five days to enthral visitors of all ages. All in all, the conference is designed to set thousands of its visitors on a path of creative pursuits.
As legendary innovator Steve Jobs once said, one way to express appreciation to the rest of humanity is to make something wonderful and put it out there. This festival offers many the chance to discover ways to bring their creativity to life.