23 Jul Caribbean Export Supports Animation
For the first time in Animae Caribe Festival’s fifteen-year history, region-wide participation will be achieved. Through the support of the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) funded by the European Union under the 10th EDF, over ten Caribbean Islands will be represented. From 28th to 31st of October 2015, the representatives from Caribbean animation studios, will participate in roundtable discussions and the inaugural ‘Animated Ideas Bootcamp’ – a collaborative training and development project that encourages group participation for the development of animated series concepts for pitching and production. Commenting on the initiative Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director at Caribbean Export states “With the global animation industry estimated to be worth some US$250 billion annually, and the regions need for economic diversification, the provision of animation services presents an attractive opportunity for the region as a whole to capitalize upon. The inclusion of regional animators at Animae Caribe Festival is a commendable development which will strengthen the region’s industry.”
Roundtable discussions will cover topics such as the IDB Cluster Initiative, ASIFA Caribbean Elections and the creation of an entrepreneurial foundation for regional collaboration. In addition the fledgling regional animation industry will be discussed with the aim of charting a way forward to stimulate its growth. The ‘Animated Ideas Bootcamp’ is an important addition to the events of the festival which also includes demonstrations, workshops, screenings, business forums in animation, game design and digital media. In addition members of this initiative will pitch their ideas to a professional jury comprised of experts from regional agencies and international organisations like Disney, and Cartoon Network for a decided award and for the development of their own trailer and production bible.
Founder of the festival Camille Selvon Abrahams stated “There is a gap between training in animation digital media and the creation of content for global audiences. This project combines the right skill sets with hands on training in the development of ideas for television or the internet. The aim is to create a spark in the development of regional content.” Discussions have begun between Animae Caribe team and Caribbean Tales Distribution Company and other regional, and international bodies to support this initiative. Caribbean teams interested in attending can apply online www.animaecaribe.com. Applications must be submitted via email to info@animaecaribe.com with a copy to dsinanan@carib-export.com by August 14th, 2015 at 4:30pm (Trinidad and Tobago time). Sponsorship will include return economy Airfare for one member of each team from their home country to the festival and a daily stipend to cover meals and other associated expenses.
