It may be long overdue, but finally its taking place.
The National Institute of Design (Ahmedabad) which is amongst the country’s leading sources for grooming creative talent has announced launched the 1st edition of Chitrakatha, an annual International animation festival which will be held at the NID premises from 25-27 October 2007.
The Festival is definitely going to draw a lot of traction and will be a great networking forum for leading creative and design professionals from animation, films, broadcast print and advertising.
As shared by NID, the Highlights include
# Focus on Adaptation of traditional Indian art forms into animation films
# International competition for students short films (Animated) with entries being invited from animation schools all over India and across the world
which will be adjudged by a jury comprising of eminent cultural and artistic personalities from various disciplines.
# Panel Discussion on �Industry Expectations from Students & Vice Versa�
# Screening of Professionals as well as student films which feature a broad range of animation styles and narratives
# Spanish selection of animated films in collaboration with Animac (International animation festival from Catalonia, Spain)
The Festival website quoting NID Director Dr. Koshy states “The long tradition and experience in creating world class professionals and celebrated films have created the necessary platform at NID for more sharing and global connectivity. I am confident that “Chitrakatha 2007″ would turn out to be a fascinating Spring-Board for crossovers and transcendence spurred by young designers and practicing professionals to push the envelope.”
Speaking to AnimationXpress.com, Festival Director Sekhar Mukherjee shared,”For the past 22 years, NID has groomed and fostered excellence in Animation and today when the animation scenario in the country is booming, we feel it is the right time to share the legacy with the entire animation ecosystem even as we refresh our own perspectives. We have all the support from our management including Director Dr Koshy and the festival will brim with youth, zest and energy and will look forward towards the brave and daring future generations of Indian animation”
Isabel Herguera who heads Animac in Spain will actively collaborate and share from her experience in organising animation festivals Internationally. “I have been visiting NID for the past three years and have greatly enjoyed my workshops and interactions with the students and people here. I am looking forward to interactions with professionals and young talent from across India and am glad to be part of this whole experience”
Organised by the National Institute of Design, the Festival is supported by Spanish Embassy and Animac (Spain). AnimationXpress.com is the Industry Relations and Communication partner.
“Besides the highlights shared, we are also working on some more exciting activities which would reflect the new spirit of Animation. We welcome industry professionals and students to come forth and collaborate and make this festival a memorable experience” concluded Mukherjee.