Animation Dingle was founded as a collaboration between Maurice Galway and John Rice, stemming from an initial film festival event in Dingle, Ireland. Originally, John, alongside Alan and Mark from JAM Media, was invited to present at a festival run by Maurice. Ironically, no one showed up to their event, likely due to a misplaced venue, but what started as a small conversation about the thriving Irish animation industry led to the creation of a dedicated Animation Day the following year. Each year, more people attended, until Animation Dingle became a festival in its own right, finding its permanent home in Dingle Town, County Kerry.
Today, Animation Dingle is a two-day festival held every March, featuring an exciting lineup of conferences, awards, workshops, and screenings. It is a collaborative effort between Maurice Galway and JAM Media, with a dedicated Kerry-Dublin team working behind the scenes to bring the festival to life.
Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of Dingle, the festival prides itself on offering high-caliber speakers, a vibrant student presence, and an atmosphere unlike any other animation event. With a strong emphasis on camaraderie, networking, and the exchange of ideas, Animation Dingle creates a unique space where industry veterans, students, and emerging talent come together to collaborate, learn, and celebrate animation.
Animation Dingle has evolved into a leading festival in the animation industry, known for its engaging events, exceptional networking opportunities, and dynamic programming. It has made a significant impact in several key areas:
✔ High-Caliber Industry Guests – The festival attracts top-tier professionals from global animation studios, offering students and emerging animators the chance to connect with industry leaders.
✔ Student-Centric Focus – Animation Dingle is an invaluable platform for students, providing opportunities to present their work, gain mentorship, and network with professionals from across the industry.
✔ Unique Festival Experience – Nowhere else will you find a Studio Pub Trail, where animation studios “adopt” local pubs for the weekend, creating an informal and interactive space for networking over a pint.
✔ Awards & Recognition – The Animation Dingle Awards honor outstanding student films, providing a launchpad for young animators to gain recognition and advance their careers.
✔ An Phaist – The Festival Mascot – The mythical An Phaist is the festival’s symbol of fun and mischief, embodying the spirit of creativity, imagination, and innovation that Animation Dingle fosters.
✔ A Truly Immersive Festival – Animation Dingle blends professional insight with the charm of its location, making Dingle not just the backdrop but a central character in the festival experience.
With a passion for animation, a strong sense of community, and an atmosphere unlike any other, Animation Dingle continues to be a must-attend event for animators, students, and industry professionals alike.
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