Autodesk Media & Entertainment
Autodesk was a proud sponsor of Women in Animation’s 8th annual WIA World Summit at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. This year’s conference tackled the theme “Stronger Together: The Equitable Future of Animation” and featured key industry thought leaders, filmmakers, and executives discussing emerging industry innovations and how they can support gender equity in animation.
Autodesk’s very own Rachael Appleton, Senior Director of M&E Business Strategy, took the stage for the panel of “The Creative Impact of Technology Revolution” along with media and entertainment powerhouses Karen Troop, Executive Producer of Passion Games, Melanie Hoyes, Director of Inclusion of the British Film Institute, and Janet Lewin, Senior Vice President of Lucasfilm Visual Effects / General Manager of Industrial Light & Magic.
The discussion, moderated by Karen Dufilho, Producer at House of K, highlighted key aspects of the industry and how they are evolving due to technological advancements. It mainly focused on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it is being used in the media and entertainment sector.
One key learning from the discussion was storytelling’s crucial role in the animation, visual effects, and games industries. The panellists also discussed AI’s potential to transform the industry. Rachael noted that AI has been used in the industry for decades and is not new. She highlighted the spectrum of AI applications, from augmenting and accelerating non-creative tasks to creating new workflow possibilities with advanced models.
The panel also highlighted the importance of community in the industry. Melanie Hoyes emphasized the role of community in fostering diversity and inclusion. She noted how the democratization of technology allows more people to enter the industry and tell their stories, thereby increasing diversity.
The discussion on AI also touched on the concerns and uncertainties surrounding its use. Karen Troop highlighted the need for regulation, responsibility, and ethics in using AI. Janet Lewin echoed this sentiment, adding that companies must be intentional about using AI and how it can augment human creativity rather than replace it.
Overall, the panel discussion emphasized that while AI and other technological advancements are reshaping the industry, the importance of storytelling, community, and ethical considerations remain at the core of media and entertainment.
Learn more about Women in Animation: https://womeninanimation.org/
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