Celebrating Art and Culture: H. Hovnanian Family Foundation's Support for ReAnimania

In our ongoing commitment to promoting culture, arts, and community engagement, the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation is proud to extend its support to the 15th annual ReAnimania International Animation Film & Comics Art Festival of Yerevan (ReA). This lively event celebrates the world of animation and comics, bringing together artists, filmmakers, and enthusiasts from across the globe.

 

ReAnimania: A Celebration of Animation and Comics

 

The ReAnimania festival is a week-long celebration of animation and comics artistry that captivates Yerevan with its spirit and vibrant colors. This year, the festival marked its 15th anniversary and was dedicated to two significant milestones: the 85th anniversary of Armenian Animation and the 100th anniversary of Armenian Cinema. It opened with the thought-provoking film "The Siren" by Sepideh Farsi, setting the stage for an unforgettable festival experience.

The ReA Festival featured an impressive lineup of around 300 animation films, attracting an audience of approximately 5,000 people from 40 countries. This international gathering served as a platform for filmmakers, animators, and artists to showcase their creative talents and share their passion for animation.

 

A Showcase of Creativity and Talent

 

One of the festival's highlights was the competition segment, where exceptional works of animation were recognized. "Chicken for Linda," directed by Sébastien Laudenbach and Chiara Malta, claimed the Best Feature Film award. "The Siren" received the Jury Special Mention award, presented by jury member Anush Kocharyan, while "Sirocco and the Kingdom of the Winds," directed by Benoît Chieux, was honored with the Valentin Podpomogov Award for the best fictional concept of an animated feature film.

The festival also celebrated short films, with "Letter to a Pig" by Tal Kantor winning the first prize and showcasing innovative animation techniques. Other notable mentions included "Have a Nice Dog!" and "Dog-Apartment," both recognized for their unique storytelling and creativity.

In addition to film screenings and awards, the ReA Festival introduced the National Comics Projects Competition. Armenian creators presented their comic projects, including the "Sasuntsi Davit,” "Women of Gyumri,” and "The Guardian of the Misguided." These projects exemplify the diverse and impactful stories that comics can convey, touching on themes of history, society, and personal journeys.

 

A Platform for Learning and Collaboration

 

The ReA Festival not only celebrates art but also fosters learning and collaboration. It hosted numerous industry experts, including painter and director Dave Bossert from Disney, author and lecturer Ed Hooks, director and animator Javier de la Chica, and more. These professionals offered insights into the world of animation, contributing to the growth and development of Armenian animation on the global stage.

The festival also featured a co-production platform where Armenian creators pitched their projects to international producers, seeking support and collaboration. This initiative has the potential to further enrich and expand Armenia's animation industry.

 

H. Hovnanian Family Foundation: A Proud Supporter

 

As a charitable organization founded by American-Armenian philanthropists Hirair and Anna Hovnanian, the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation is dedicated to positively impacting charitable causes, education, and community development, focusing on the Armenian community. We firmly believe in the power of culture and art to connect people, inspire creativity, and preserve heritage.

We are honored to be among the esteemed supporters of the ReAnimania International Animation Film & Comics Art Festival of Yerevan. This festival not only enriches Armenia's cultural landscape but also contributes to the global appreciation of animation and comics as art forms.

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