The Ottawa International Animation Festival Heads Online For Its 44th Year
Skwigly
The Ottawa International Animation Festival is moving its screenings and talks online for the 2020 event and the organizers are embracing the challenge. The extended event is running from September 23 to October 4.
At first we wanted to mimic the live event as much as possible, but then the team started to think of ways we could take the things people love about the OIAF and make it more suited to an at-home experience. It’s a chance to get creative and try some new things.
Managing Director, Kelly Neall
The team is researching the best platform to securely showcase the films for an international audience while also incorporating a social component. There will be artist talks, workshops and the chance to virtually meet with schools and recruiters. InGenius Jr for families will return as well as the NightOwl party. Activities are being extended past the event’s usual 5-day run so people can work it into their schedule.
While having a limited number of in-theatre events is not completely off the table, with social distancing and reduced international travel it would be impossible to hold a traditional event. 80% of OIAF attendees are from out of town including large groups of animation students coming from the USA. Organizers felt it was also much too risky on many levels.
The Animation Conference, OIAF’s industry event will move online as well. Director Azarin Sohrabkhani is working to involve decision-makers from around the world, “this is a great opportunity to meet with even more potential partners than the live event since travel has been taken out of the equation.”
More information about Online OIAF will be rolling out over the summer including pass and ticket prices and programming details.