AnimfxNZ – a must attend event for Animation!
30 October 2009
Director of Karactaz Animation, Dylan Coburn shares his experiences with the event
Since starting in the animation industry as an Assistant Animator for Disney Television in 1995, Dylan Coburn has become one of the most respected animation professionals in the Asia/Pacific region. Dylan talks to AnimfxNZ about how his attendance and participation at past AnimfxNZ conferences has helped launch Karactaz globally.
AnimfxNZ: As a past attendee, what were your impressions of the content and networking opportunities at AnimFX?
Dylan: For the most part, very good. I was a speaker at the first AnimFX so I had more opportunity to meet other speakers – Animation pros are usually not accessible at all for start ups and beginners, so it’s a rare opportunity for them.
AnimfxNZ: What was the most interesting part of your experience?
Dylan: I enjoy the strong connection between the Animation, VFX and Games Industries. Like minded people exist in these areas, and the people make the party – so meeting new people who think in a similar way to you is the most interesting part. Often because they’ve had different experiences, and/or have been in the industry longer – their insights are very valuable.
AnimfxNZ: Did you have the opportunity to speak to the speakers after their talks? Who did you speak with?
Dylan: I spoke with all the speakers for the first two years. The third year I was not around much, due to work commitments. I’ve remained in contact with Sander Schwartz, Michael Carrington, and Tim Johnson who have become good friends as well as great business associates.
AnimfxNZ: How did the information from AnimFX change or affect your business or creative perspective?
Dylan: Strengthening my relationship with Sander Schwartz at the first AnimFX led to me hanging with Sander in LA, and him referring me to DC Comics. We ended up being recommended by DC Comics to Warner Premiere to produce a 60-minute Motion Comic called Superman:Red Son. This was a key breakthrough for Karactaz, and I was at Comic Con for the release in SanDiego this year to rave reviews. So – this conference has had a very useful effect on this company, that deal was not won entirely because of it, but it certainly laid a good foundation for the Motion Comic opportunity to arise. I have had further business discussions with the BBC and Dreamworks, as well as some creative counsel too. This is brilliant, and priceless – and was initiated from AnimFX years 1 and 2.
AnimfxNZ: Did you have the opportuniity to speak with people from the other creative digital entertainment industries? How were their perspectives similar or different from yours?
Dylan: The first 2 years we’re well received by the community, but the third year I didn’t attend much at all, so hard to know.
AnimfxNZ: What would you say to someone who is considering coming, but hasn’t signed up yet?
Dylan: Depends on their goals. If they have business and IP development ambitions, and need to broaden their network – absolutely sign up straight away. If they’re pros looking for creative or technology ideas and tools – this conference because its local is worth attending.