Animated films: International Animation Academy opens
The Lucerne International Animation Academy (LIAA) opened in Lucerne on Tuesday. The four-day event is dedicated to providing information, fostering exchange, and promoting animated film.
The LIAA is hosted by the Institute of Design at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts. It is the only university in Switzerland to offer a full-time course in animation filmmaking. Although films will be shown at the conference, according to project manager Bea Gasser, it is primarily about theoretical discussion. It is true that we are surrounded by animation in everyday life, for example through commercials, says Gasser. Nevertheless, this cultural phenomenon is neglected by film studies. This is why they came up with the idea of the Animation Academy.
One of the main objectives is to establish animation in film studies. According to Gasser, it is also about networking practical training, theory and research. Last but not least, the public should be made aware of the aesthetic independence of this art. Guests at the LIAA include the directors Steven and Timothy Quay from London, the Canadian sound designer Normand Roger and the animators Yury Norstein and Stantislav Sokolov from Moscow. Georges Schwizgebel, winner of the 2002 Swiss Film Award, and Swiss producer and director Ted Sieger will also be taking part.
One of the main objectives is to establish animation in film studies. According to Gasser, it is also about networking practical training, theory and research. Last but not least, the public should be made aware of the aesthetic independence of this art. Guests at the LIAA include the directors Steven and Timothy Quay from London, the Canadian sound designer Normand Roger and the animators Yury Norstein and Stantislav Sokolov from Moscow. Georges Schwizgebel, winner of the 2002 Swiss Film Award, and Swiss producer and director Ted Sieger will also be taking part.
