The project to learn about the history and rebuilding of the locomotive that started operation on the Stockton & Darlington Railway in 1825 was undertaken on behalf of the National Railway Museum. A close examination of each component of the locomotive and tender was accompanied by a lengthy trawl through contemporary papers relating to the […]

Part of the 2025 Manchester Animation Festival We reflect on the career journeys of three directors and creatives, and how they’ve navigated the animation industry as women. Despite the progress our industry has made in terms of representation, the Names Will Be Made discourse has shown us that there’s more work to be done to […]

Part of the 2025 Manchester Animation Festival The idea of including AI in digital animation workflows has shifted from an avoidable option to an ever-present integration. Rapid change raises pressing issues, such as how to prioritise and safeguard artists. Which structures can guarantee moral behaviour? And how can individuals and studios improve their skills without […]

Part of the 2025 Manchester Animation Festival MAF is delighted to welcome Anna Ginsberg, one of the most innovative and exciting animation directors in the industry, to the stage at MAF 2025. Anna’s artist talk, “Talking Genitals, the Oldest Women in the World and embracing your inner Hag” is “an honest account of my creative […]

Part of the 2025 Manchester Animation Festival As audiences are bypassing traditional broadcasters and shunning cinema releases, creators are finding new ways to connect directly with viewers online. From established institutions sharing work digitally, to independent creators building global audiences on YouTube, the landscape of animation distribution is rapidly shifting. Join us as we bring […]

Part of the 2025 Manchester Animation Festival Moving from junior to senior roles can feel like a big leap, especially when you don’t know where to go next. This panel brings together industry professionals and recruiters who know what to look for when studios are promoting talent. This session will explore ways to build skills […]

Part of the 2025 Manchester Animation Festival Join Aardman Animations and Flycheese Studio for an inspiring conversation on the value of neurodiverse minds in animation. We’ll explore the creativity and fresh perspectives neurodiverse talent brings to the industry, while also addressing the biases and barriers often faced. Discover how studios can build more inclusive environments, […]

Part of the 2025 Manchester Animation Festival BAFTA-winning filmmaker and animator Will Anderson joins us for an in-person and in-depth look at his work and creative process. Known for his character-driven, dialogue-led stories that blend humour with existential themes, Will Anderson’s work spans both 2D and 3D design. His acclaimed films include the feature A […]

Part of the 2025 Manchester Animation Festival Are you looking to get your foot in the door in the world of animation? At a time where the animation landscape is hard to navigate and breaking in feels tougher than ever, join our panel of early-career professionals as they share how they made their own way […]

Part of the 2025 Manchester Animation Festival So you’re looking at a career in animation? Have we got a panel for you! We’ve brought together some of the finest minds in animation to deliver a frank and open panel to discuss pathways into the animation business. Crammed full of experience, expect an honest overview of […]