Women in Animation: 2010

Given that International Women's Day falls in the month of March, I will be starting a regular yearly series of posts dealing with Women animators who I have met or whose work I find inspiring. This year, I'll just be showcasing some animators, however in the future, it is my goal to add interviews with women animators with the purpose of turning people on to their work, providing biographical information, as well as listing out any advice these accomplished animators wish to share with the community.

By starting this series, it is my hope that not only will people have the opportunity to get to know animated films that they might not have discovered otherwise, but also that girls will be encouraged to consider the field of animation for their career. Animation has traditionally been a male-dominated field since its inception, with women playing supporting roles (like the ink and paint girls of Walt Disney Studios). However, with the cost of tools decreasing, the proliferation of schools teaching animation skills and software, and the opportunity to reach a world-wide audience for pennies via the Internet, there's never been a better time for women to create animated films and share with the world their unique voice, stories, and perspectives.

Simply put, the animation community needs more women animators, scriptwriters, and directors in order for it to progress forward and fulfill its potential. Be encouraged by the stories and advice from those who have gone before you.