Women in Animation Meet Up in Mumbai on 23rd April

Meet Chutki, the cute little mascot of the Indian chapter of Women in Animation, at their first ever Meet Up on 23rd April, 2008, in Mumbai.

Women In Animation is a professional, non-profit organization established in 1994 to foster the dignity, concerns and advancement of women who are involved in any and all aspects of the art and industry of animation. WIA is also an educational organization. The Indian chapter is led by Saraswathi Balgam with help from Rekha Thorat.

Through their workshops, meetings and panels, WIA aims to share with its members a valuable insight into the industry, available opportunities and other educational resources. The Indian chapter is actively looking for volunteers to help launch this organization at a grass roots level.

On 23rd April, WIA has organised its first ever meet up that will bring together on one platform some of India’s leading women animators and film makers like Simi Nallaseth, Geetanjali Rao, Simi Nallaseth, Sherry Bharda, Nina Sabnani, Shilpa Ranade and Saraswathi Balgam.

Saraswathi Balgam will introduce WIA with a small presentation on the history of women in the field. This will be followed by a special screening of selected animation films done by women in India.

Next, there will be an informal Panel Discussion with the audience free to participate. Panelists will discuss their journey and experiences in the industry. The talks would delve into the challenges faced in the industry from a woman’s point of view, the attitudes of people towards women in this field, why so few women in the industry? Striking a balance between home and work; Is there any discrimination? Future activities of WIA and related issues.

click to see the poster

Besides the insightful panel discussion, there will also be a special screening of animation films by women in Indian, a special presentation of recent short films from Europe by women directors and producers selected and hosted by Shelley Page, Head of International Outreach, DreamWorks Animation.

The Meet Up is not restricted to women alone. Men are also welcome to join in, not only in the meet up but also to become members of WIA India.

So be there to celebrate and applaud all the women who have contributed and are contributing to animation in India!

Date: 23rd April, 2008
Time: 5 pm. to 8 pm. (Gates open at 4:30 pm)
Venue: National College, Bandra West, Mumbai

Entry is free of cost, you just need to register by sending an email to wia.ind@gmail.com