Caribbean accepted into the prestigous Animation Association (ASIFA)

12 Dec Caribbean accepted into the prestigous Animation Association (ASIFA)

Posted at 17:16h in News by Animae Caribe

After an extremely exciting visit to China a few weeks ago to meet the general assembly of ASIFA Chapters, Camille Selvon Abrahams the president of the ASIFA Caribbean chapter is very optimistic of the direction that Caribbean animation is taking. The global association ASIFA (Association Internationale du Film d’Animation) was founded in 1960 in Annecy, France. Renowned Canadian animator Norman McLaren was elected the first president of ASIFA. McLaren, John Halas and other founding fathers envisioned a world of peace and dialogue to settle differences. It is an umbrella organization for the many chapters worldwide. They are united in the desire to promote the art of animation. The goals include sharing information, preserving the rights of animators, and promoting progress towards peace and understanding through unified interest in the art of animation.

One of the founding fathers Norman McLaren in his studio in the 60’s.

Working with UNESCO, ASIFA strived to unite the animation world in peace by trying to find ways for animators from both sides of the Iron Curtain to meet in person. The main goal of ASIFA was to share animation films & develop lasting international friendships. Now, with almost 40 chapters worldwide this spirit of peace, love and tolerance continues to guide ASIFA. “Though my plate is absolutely overfull with responsibilities I found that it was expedient to request a Caribbean chapter. The application was made in 2010 and after a rigorous process of recommendations and investigation the global chapter conceded that the Caribbean should have their own chapter, to me this is a testament to the success of the Annual Animae Caribe Festival and the increase in quality animations coming out of the Caribbean. However I look forward to passing over the presidency very soon so that I can continue the developmental work in the Caribbean” Selvon Abrahams stated.

The trip to China was two fold for Abrahams as she was also invited to lecture at the prestigious Jilin Animation Institute where she conducted a presentation on the short but dynamic history of Caribbean Animation to over 800 animation students. There were also discussions with the dean of gaming and the head of the institute on exchanges between their institution and the University of Trinidad and Tobago. There was a screening of the works of the founding father of ASIFA John Halas at this year’s Animae Caribe Animation and Digital Media Festival carded for October 29th to Nov 4th 2012.