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Quickdraw Animation Society
Animation is a fast-growing field, including everything from
camera-less drawings to digital and graphic work. The Quickdraw Animation
Society (QAS) was created in 1984 and it serves to support and encourage
animation in its many forms. With a history of creating award-winning filmmakers,
the QAS provides many services for aspiring animators in the industry. The QAS
facility, located in Calgary, can provide animators with pertinent
information found in a resource library that houses films, video, laser
discs, books and periodicals.
The
QAS's history can be traced back to 1980 when Greg Lucier re-located from
Toronto to Calgary. Lucier, a medical professor and animation enthusiast
was interested in formulating a society to encourage more interest
in animation. With the help of John Edstrom and Rita
Egizii, Lucier began showing animated shorts to a small group of loyal
viewers. The QAS officially began in 1984, with a small gathering of
like-minded individuals watching cartoons in an old medical building. A
new group of board members, consisting mostly of
Alberta College of Art students, took
over in 1987 and changed the focus of the society from commercial
animation to a broad and alternative look at creative expression.
The QAS has undergone many changes over the years,
transforming from a small gathering of animation devotees to an
organization dedicated to education and production. Educational programs
delve into interesting aspects of the craft. Programs such as 'Handmade Cinema'
offer weekend workshops whereby participants may explore camera-less
animation. The QAS is also dedicated to introducing youth to the world of
animation and generating interest amongst a new crowd of aspiring animators
and filmmakers. Youth may try a number of interesting animation-related and
filmmaking activities such as making Plasticine characters, puppets and
designing sets. 'Quick Kids', a program developed by QAS member Mandy
Johnston, allows youth to develop a story into an
animated video, witnessing each step in the process first-hand.
Over
the years, work done by the QAS members has been displayed at
international film festivals, many pieces garnering awards. The impact of
the QAS on the Alberta new media arts community is profound, giving a
start to many artists who have emerged since the organization was
established.
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