Sharjah Animation Conference (SAC) is a five-days extravaganza that celebrates the artistry and innovation of the animation industry. As a first-of-its-kind event in the region, SAC brings together animation enthusiasts, professionals, and content creators from all around the world to Sharjah in a dynamic and engaging setting.
The conference offers a rich program of workshops, talks, screenings, and exhibitions, all led by award-winning industry experts and internationally acclaimed artists, including Oscar recipients and other prestigious honorees.
Created by Sharjah Book Authority in partnership with Italy's Bergamo Animation Days (BAD), SAC is a pioneering initiative designed to foster creativity, inspire new professionalism, and serve as a nexus for collaboration and exchange among various disciplines within the animation sphere.
The vibrant emirate of Sharjah, renowned as the artistic and cultural capital of the UAE, serves as the perfect backdrop for the Sharjah Animation Conference. With a rich history and a focus on culture that has earned it the title of "Cultural Capital of the Arab World" by UNESCO, Sharjah offers a unique and inspiring setting for showcasing the creativity and innovation of the animation industry. The city's diverse and curious audience will undoubtedly be captivated by the extraordinary talents and groundbreaking work presented at SAC, further solidifying Sharjah's reputation as a hub for artistic excellence and cultural exchange.
The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) is the visionary organization behind the Sharjah Animation Conference, emphasizing its commitment to nurturing creativity across various forms of artistic expression. SBA champions the growth of the publishing and book industry, as well as the animation sector, by offering grants, training, and development programs that support creators in the UAE and beyond. As a proactive organizer of events and initiatives that celebrate and advance the arts, SBA's dedication to creative progress makes them the ideal partner for championing the animation industry through SAC.
Executive Director Khoula Al Mujaini is a driving force behind the Sharjah Animation Conference, which aims to promote culture and knowledge exchange through the world of animation. She has wholeheartedly embraced the project and is committed to making the conference a platform for exploring cutting-edge ideas and techniques in animation. Assisting her in this endeavor is Artistic Director Pietro Pinetti, who is responsible for leading the creative direction of the conference. Working closely with the conference team, Pinetti is tasked with developing a unique and engaging program that will bring together industry experts and enthusiasts from around the world. Together, they are committed to making the Sharjah Animation Conference a platform for exploring cutting-edge ideas and techniques in animation and bringing together industry experts and enthusiasts from around the world.
The partnership between Bergamo Animation Days and the Sharjah Animation Conference represents an important step towards cultural exchange and collaboration in the animation industry. The potential of animation as a powerful communication tool, especially for younger generations, makes it crucial to foster cross-cultural dialogue and mutual learning between the Western and Middle Eastern worlds. The partnership between these two events not only creates opportunities for professionals and enthusiasts to share their knowledge and experiences, but also promotes the richness and diversity of different cultural perspectives. This partnership can pave the way for future collaborations and new forms of cultural exchange in the animation industry, bringing together people and ideas from all over the world.
The Sharjah Animation Conference (SAC) is a first-of-its-kind annual event that brings together animation enthusiasts, professionals, and children to celebrate the art and craft of animation.
The Sharjah Animation Conference is scheduled to take place from the 1st of May to the 5th of May 2024.
The SAC features a variety of events such as talks, sessions , workshops, expert discussions, film screenings, and exhibitions.