Toonz Animation to launch school for animation training

Toonz Animation India, which was recently ranked among the top 10 animation studios in the world, has decided to deploy the internationally trained and experienced manpower at its disposal for training activities. The move is aimed at meeting the shortage of trained animators in India, even as the animation industry grows at a rapid pace.

Toonz's President and CEO Bill Dennis said that the Toonz Animation School would be launched in mid-May 2003. A faculty of expatriates would provide intensive training that met international standards. He added that those who enroll for the Toonz programme would also be provided an opportunity to work in real animation on international projects, as a part of the course content. Toonz Animation School will conduct programmes in three areas: Animation, Layout and In-between/Clean up. Eligibility would be formal training in art and design and/or a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts. The selection process would consist of a candidate portfolio review and an admission test.

Toonz Animation has also entered into a tie-up with a financial institution to provide support to the students intending to join the course. The company adds that students who excel in the course will be provided placement in Toonz Animation's studios in Thiruvananthapuram and Mumbai.