Building Cultural Bridges through Animation: A Collaborative Journey Between the Philippines and Canada

OCAD University recently embarked on an exciting collaboration with iAcademy in Manila, Philippines, under the leadership of Philippe Blanchard, Chair of the Experimental Animation Program at OCAD U. This unique initiative, spanning from May 10th to 25th, 2024, united six OCAD U students with their counterparts at iAcademy to create a short animated documentary. The project delved into the rich history of independent animation in the Philippines, highlighting Canada's significant influence within this field. 

Unearthing hidden histories 

The project was centered around an exhibition curated by Dean Jon Cuyson of iAcademy, which showcased the history of Filipino independent animation. OCAD U's contribution highlighted Canada's impact on the Philippines' animation industry, revealing the pivotal roles Canadian studios and tools have played in the region. Through interviews with industry leaders like Patricia Burns, former VP of International Production at Nelvana, and Trevor Bentley, founder of Toon City, students delved into the complexities of outsourcing in the animation world. Their research and insights culminated in a collaborative short film that blended academic investigation with real-world perspectives.

Learning beyond the classroom 

The collaboration provided invaluable lessons for OCAD U students. Immersed in the realities of international animation production, they gained firsthand experience of the global networks that shape the cartoons they grew up with. Working under tight deadlines and in unfamiliar environments, they learned to adapt, collaborate, and prioritize the learning process over the final product. Despite challenges like jet lag and cultural acclimatization, the students left with a deeper understanding of both their craft and the broader animation landscape. This collaboration marks the beginning of an ongoing relationship that promises to inspire future projects and foster cross-cultural connections in the world of animation.