Taking place over the course of five days at Frybrook House in Boyle, Co. Roscommon, the event offered a diverse programme comprising workshops, one-on-one mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities. Experienced animation directors led each workshop, outlining their creative methodologies and charting their professional progress, with a focus on their workflows from pre-production through to production. The mentoring sessions provided participants with direct access to experienced leaders in the animation industry, helping them to analyse their individual creative processes and offering practical advice for improvement. Networking sessions gave attendees the chance to meet others in the industry, fostering connections that proved invaluable as they advanced in their careers.
The Directors Lab was developed and designed by Stephen Fagan, creative producer and managing director of Studio Meala, along with Damien Byrne from the National Film School at IADT.
International Collaboration
The lab welcomed participants from across Europe, supported by FilmEU, with attendees including:
-Rauno Laikjoe (Baltic School of Film and Media Arts, Tallinn University, Estonia)
-Sine Ozbilge (LUCA School of Arts, Belgium)
- Jack O’Shea and Sophie Quin (IADT, Dublin)
Their participation highlights the event's strong international element, fostering lasting relationships and networks between Irish and overseas animation directors and institutions.
Programme Highlights
Workshops, Mentoring, and Masterclasses: The Lab included hands-on sessions, group discussions, and practical workshops to share directing experiences and techniques.
Esteemed Guest Speakers: Industry experts engaged with attendees, including:
-Rob Cullen (former Creative Director, Boulder Media)
-Ariel Le Croix (former Technical Director, Rooster Teeth)
-Carol Freeman (founder, Paper Panther)
-Alan Holly (founder, And Maps and Plans)
-Stephen Fagan (Managing Director, Studio Meala)
-Craig Stuart Garfinkle (Composer)
Keynote Masterclass: Troy Quane, Oscar-nominated director of Nimona (2023), delivered an inspiring talk on leadership, team culture, and his career journey through Canada and the US.
Lasting Impact
The Animation Directors’ Lab aims to become an annual fixture, nurturing a vibrant, international network for animation directors. Thanks to collaboration between IADT, FilmEU, and key creative industry partners, this event demonstrates a commitment to developing talent and supporting global creative exchange.
| Period | 17 Jun 2024 → 21 Jun 2024 |
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| Event type | Seminar |
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| Location | IrelandShow on map |
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| Degree of Recognition | International |
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This activity contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
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SDG 4
Quality Education
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SDG 8
Decent Work and Economic Growth
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SDG 9
Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
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SDG 17
Partnerships for the Goals