Award-winning animator visits OCAD U

The past, present and future of Canada’s animation industry is under the microscope on January 14 when award-winning animator Michael Hirsh joins with OCAD University President Ana Serrano for a thought-provoking conversation.

Hirsch discusses his memoir, Animation Nation: How We Built A Cartoon Empire (2024), which recounts how he helped kickstart the hugely successful children’s animated entertainment industry in Canada.

He will recount his adventures working on famed cartoon franchises such as Babar, The Adventures of Tintin, Berenstain Bears, Franklin, The Magic School Bus and Beetlejuice.

Hirsh will also share insights on the importance of experimenting in creative entrepreneurship, the role of collaboration and the state of the animation industry in an era of social media and self-promotion.

The Belgian-born animator’s illustrious career took off in 1978 when filmmaker George Lucas noticed an obscure animated TV show produced by a small Toronto firm. Lucas had been searching for someone to craft an animated short for a Star Wars television special.

The resulting collaboration, the Star Wars Holiday Special, aired on Nov. 17, 1978, and introduced the iconic character Boba Fett. It also introduced the world to the talent of Canadian animators, launching one of the country’s most successful creative industries.

Hardcover copies of Animation Nation, published by Sutherland House Books, will be available for sale.

Event Information

Date and time: Jan. 14, 2025 | 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Location: OCAD University, 100 McCaul St., Auditorium (MCA-190).

Registration information

Since space is limited, registration is required.