SAC returns for its third annual edition, again organised in collaboration with Italy\u2019s Bergamo Animation Days (BAD), with an extensive (indeed, impressive) programme of trends, cutting-edge technologies, and game-changing opportunities, This year there’s a substantial Japanese influence \u2013 Studio Ghibli notables, anime in many of the sessions, an afternoon of cosplay …<\/p>\n
Overall, it\u2019s a chance for enthusiasts, current and would-be professionals and industry folk to mingle with some of the world\u2019s best animators \u2013 more than 70 of them, say the organisers, with the full list here<\/a>. Headliners include Masayuki Miyaji and Tamiya Terashima<\/strong>, both associated with Studio Ghibli; Tom Bancroft<\/strong> of Pencilish Animation Studios, known for his work on Disney classics like Mulan<\/em> and Aladdin<\/em>; and the celebrated character designer Sandro Cleuzo<\/strong>, known for Anastasia, Tarzan, and Chip\u2019n Dale (his workshop predictably sold out early, sadly, and so has Bancroft\u2019s).<\/p>\n Khoula Al Mujaini, Executive Director of SAC, described animation as “a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and generations … Through SAC, we aim to celebrate this remarkable art form, inspire new generations of creatives, and provide a space where industry leaders can connect, collaborate, and push the boundaries of animated storytelling”.<\/p>\n Most of the artist led workshops are hands-on and\/or quite technical, which justifies the extra costs applied to them. But the standard AED 139 four-pass does give you access to 30+ talks, panel discussions and roundtables; lots of activations (which usually means people trying to sell you stuff, but in entertaining fashion); and three live music gigs, include one \u201clive anime concert\u201d. There\u2019s also a \u201cshared creative space to draw and collaborate\u201d. And of course there will be many screenings.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"