Animated Connections Conference 2023


A dedicated day of discussion that blends industry practice with academic excellence to explore and enhance the prospects for educating in the animated artform. For 2023 our yearly Educating Animators conference has been reborn as the Animated Connections Conference.

The conference will demolish the barriers between education, training and industry to bring together key figures from the sector for lively chat and constructive conversations, highlighting good practice from industry and exploring all educational avenues that will build a better animation ecosystem for all.
At Animated Connections Conference the conversation between academia and industry is refreshed and anyone with an interest in training or education in animation is welcome to join us for a packed day of practical events, panels and keynote speakers.

2023 Keynote speakers include Andrew Schlussel, Senior Director, Training and Development at DNEG Animation and Shelley Page, Key talent and artist liaison at Locksmith Animation.

Please note, the Industry Festival Pass is the only pass type that grants access to ACC. All other passholders and the general public must purchase a separate ticket.

The conference will run from 13:00 to 17:45 and end with a drinks reception. Here’s the full schedule:

13:00 – 13:10: Welcome
13:10 – 13:45: Opening Keynote: ‘Why Draw?’ by Andrew Schlussel
13:45 – 14:00: Break and Networking
14:00 – 15:00: ‘Industry Skills or Academic Excellence?’ with guests Michael Smith, Jon Rennie, Tim Searle and Shelley Page
15:00 – 15:15: Break and Networking
15:15 – 16:00: Breakout Sessions
16:00 – 16:15: Break and Networking
16:15 – 17:00: Present Findings
17:00 – 17:45: Closing Keynote: ‘How To Be Wanted’ by Shelley Page
17:45 – 18:30: Closing Thanks + Networking Drinks Reception

Tickets: £40.00 – Purchase here.

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