Middlesex animator honoured at Valencia International Film Festival
Skwigly
Middlesex University animation lecturer Jonathan Hodgson has been honoured with the prestigious Luna de Valencia Award at the 2013 Valencia International Film Festival Cinema Jove.
The award, presented for life time achievement, was given to the BAFTA award-winning animator to recognise his contribution to the industry during his 25 year career, with tribute paid to his uniqueness in the variety of techniques he uses. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy director Tomas Alfredson also received the honour during the festival.
Jonathan, who runs the University’s BA Animation degree, said “It’s a great honour to have my work recognised.” Bestowed with the title of ‘The master of animation’ at the festival, he presented a retrospective of his work, delivered talks and was a member of the jury for the festival’s Official Selection of Short Films.
The Valencia International Film Festival Cinema Jove, which is now in its 28th year, is a specialised international film festival held in Spain, bringing filmmakers from across the globe together to celebrate and explore new trends in the international film scene.
The accolade will be added to Jonathan’s raft of awards including a BAFTA for Best Animated Short Film and the Most Creative Use of New Technologies in the British Animation Awards.
Middlesex senior lecturer Jonathan Hodgson said: “It’s a recognition of the contribution I’ve made to the world of animation and means I’ve made my mark after 25 years in the industry. It’s a lifetime achievement award, so it’s very flattering, although I hope it’s not the end of my career just yet!”
Joining Jonathan at the festival was former Middlesex animation student Antonio J Busto Algarin who helped bring together a showcase of student work from Middlesex University and institutions in Spain and Canada at the Valencia Institute of Modern Art. Jonathan curated and the presented the retrospective piece from Middlesex animation students’ work from over the last few years.
L-R Jonathan Hodgson, Spanish film star Macarena Garcia and film director Tomas Alfredson