FTI AGM 2010

Hey! It's got a ring to it - heheh.

Actually I thought I'd give an animator - relevant breakdown of the 2009 Annual Report that we received at the AGM.
Initially, in a general interest sense, FTI's CEO, Grahame Sward, mentions that
"FTI's Core Goals within the next three year Strategic Plan are shaped around our Statement of Intent which states: FTI will continue to provide opportunities to engage people in a diverse rannge of screen experiences. We will remain a flexible and adaptive organisation that is outward looking, curious, passionate and committed in supporting the development of screen-based activities in Western Australia. Particular focus will be aimed around infrastructure needs - building refurbishment or relocation and digital content management services; multi-platform projects; and increasing our connection and relevance to the sector and the wider industry."

Actually I'd like to quiz him a little to find out more about the interperetation of "...digital content management services; multi-platform projects...". I think this may be alluding to web, perhaps live projection... At the least it is open to anything new and interesting that can provide a medium for screen work. (the e.g. of iPhone games spring to mind?)

Animations that are mentioned in the Annual report are The Little Wooden Boy by Hope and Cornish ( Delivery expected in Dec, 2010); My Extraordinary Little Sister for Nick Shorts by Producer: Kate Vyvyan Directors: Stephen Grant & TJ Beeson and Hairoes - The WASA Winner of Best Short Animation 2009. I think thats right!

In 2009 FTI ran the Diploma in Screen Animation just once (instead of twice) due to insufficient enrolments. "FTI has maintained a strong focus on connecting and nurturing early career animators, multi-media artists and the art of storytelling, communication, animation and cross platform creation." 2009 also saw a mentor program for upcoming animators. (which is not now there).

My summary is that, due to 2010's small intake (just 4 Diploma of Animation students), the students are going to have to work extra hard to make their work be noticed. As always the challenge is to stand out from the crowd (while working in a collaborative environment). In this case, so much has come before, and with such a small class the challenge is to create truly outstanding work. The danger is that 2010 may be swept under the rug if the small intake of students does not shine!

We the students are very grateful that FTI is even running the course with such a small intake! Lets not waste a minute!