International Animation Day, History, Significance, Celebration

International Animation Day (IAD) was created by ASIFA (Association Internationale du Film d’Animation) in 2002 to honor the origins and influence of animation. It commemorates the first public projection of animated images, Émile Reynaud’s Théâtre Optique in Paris on October 28, 1892. International Animation Day, also known as IAD, is held annually on 28th October.

Origin

• Established by ASIFA in 2002.
• Marks the first public performance of projected moving images by Émile Reynaud on October 28, 1892.
• Celebrates animation as a significant artistic and cultural medium.

Significance of Animation

• Recognized across various media, theater, television, advertising, music, internet, multimedia, and film.
• Appreciated as a powerful art form by independent creators, students, artists, and even children globally.
• Highlights the diversity of animation techniques like drawing, claymation, paper cut-outs, sand animation, and digital animation.
• Animation transcends language, making it a universal tool for cultural connection and storytelling.

ASIFA’s Role and Goals

• Promotes animation as a dynamic and evolving medium.
• Supports collaboration and exchange between animation communities worldwide.
• Seeks to increase public awareness and appreciation for animation through IAD.
• Assists in connecting animators from different countries, encouraging the sharing of unique animation styles and cultural insights.

Celebrations 

People can engage in International Animation Day by,

• Watch a few animated films from different periods and styles.
• Attend local events or workshops conducted by cultural institutions.
• Learn about the history and techniques of animation through documentaries and other educational material.
• International Animation Day will fall on Monday, October 28, 2024, and again animation fans around the world will have another day to celebrate this vibrant art form. 

Celebrating IAD, Activities and Events

Types of Events,

• Screenings of animated films and shorts.
• Workshops for hands-on experience with animation techniques.
• Conferences and Exhibitions to explore animation history, trends, and innovations.
• In some regions, events are extensive, while in others, a single day of screenings or workshops may be held to observe IAD.

Film Program Exchange

• Promoters of IAD are encouraged to exchange film programs internationally.
• Facilitates global exposure of animation works and enhances cultural exchange.
• IAD coordinators support organizers in establishing these cross-border exchanges and sharing activity reports with ASIFA members.