June 16, 2020
Ottawa, ON, Canada One of the world’s best known and loved animation events 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,” says Managing Director Kelly Neall. “It’s a chance to get creative and try some new things”
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.
The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) is one of the world’s leading animation events providing screenings, exhibits, workshops and entertainment since 1976. OIAF is an annual five-day event bringing art and industry together in a vibrant hub and attracting more than 34,000 artists, producers, students and animation fans from around the world.
This year’s virtual OIAF runs September 23 to October 4. Visit the OIAF website at www.animationfestival.ca.
The OIAF is organized by the Canadian Film Institute (CFI), a not for profit, charitable organization dedicated to inspiring audiences and helping them discover the world of cinema. It also works to connect them with artists and with their communities. It was incorporated in 1935 and is the oldest film institution in Canada and the second oldest film institute in the world
