A glimpse into world of Iranian animation makers

Within the tapestry of Iran's diverse culture, a number of accomplished animation makers has risen, contributing significantly to the world of animated storytelling in the country. Here, we introduce five prominent figures who have made their mark in Iranian animation history:

1. Bahram Azimi

Azimi is a multifaceted artist, renowned as a cartoonist, animation director, and scriptwriter. Holding a B.A in Handcraft Arts and an M.A in Animation from Tehran’s University of Art, Azimi is a prominent figure in both the academic and professional realms.

Notable Works:

- ‘The Traffic Police’ (Sia Saketi and Davood Danger)

- ‘Mr. Safety’ (Hassan Dangerous Hassan)

- ‘Baba Electric’

- ‘Masouleh’

- ‘Tehran’s 1500’

Accolades:

Azimi's contributions have not gone unnoticed, as he has secured more than 60 prizes in Iran and 29 international awards in graphics, painting, animation, and cartoon contests.

2. Behrouz and Nader Yaghmaian

Behrouz and Nader Yaghmaian form a dynamic duo in the Iranian animation scene. Behrouz, a graduate of the Faculty of Dramatic Arts, is hailed as a pioneer and father of animation in Iran.

Notable Works:

- ‘Jamshid and Khorshid’

Accolades:

Behrouz Yaghmaian has earned recognition, winning the top award at the 22nd Roshd Educational and Scientific Film Festival for the ‘Li Li’ series.

3. Mohammad Abolhassani

Abolhassani, a producer and activist in the field of Iranian animation, contributed significantly to the industry with his notable work, ‘Dirin Dirin’. Sadly, he passed away in 2021 at the age of 46 due to COVID-19.

4. Hamed Jafari

Jafari is a distinguished cinema and animation producer, credited with producing some of the best-selling animations in the history of Iranian cinema. Notable works include ‘Prince of Rome’, ‘The Elephant King’ and the award-winning ‘The Smart Kid’.

5. Ali Noori Oskouei

Noori Oskouei is a versatile artist who has served as an art consultant, a member of the Iranian ASIFA board of directors, and a member of the Iranian Guild of Animation. His expertise extends to art directing, technical directing, and VFX supervising.

Notable Works:

- ‘Release from Heaven’ (2017)

Accolades:

Oskouei's film 'Release from Heaven' gained global recognition and earned him multiple awards, solidifying his reputation as a respected figure in the international animation industry. Among his accolades are the best animation award at the 1st edition of Gold Movie Awards in the UK and the best long animation award at the 1st Palm Springs International Animation Festival (PSIAF) in California, USA.

In conclusion, these Iranian animation makers have not only shaped the domestic animation landscape but have also left an indelible mark on the international stage. Through their creativity, innovation, and dedication, they continue to contribute to the vibrant world of animation, enriching global audiences with their unique perspectives and storytelling prowess.

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