On Saturday, 8 Azar, the Fine Arts Campus of the University of Tehran had a different feel to it. From 10 in the morning, the energy and excitement of young artists promised a busy, rewarding day ahead. The first day of the first Puyan Student Animation Festival opened with a diverse and thrilling program, marking the start of a new chapter in the history of student animation.
Act One: The Sound of Music and the Unveiling of a Beginning
The opening ceremony of the Puyan Festival began with the pleasant sound of live music, setting an atmosphere that was both warm and professional. In this segment, those in attendance witnessed the unveiling of the festival’s first teaser — a promise of a week full of exciting moments to come.
Next came the keynote remarks. The dean of the faculty opened with a welcome address, emphasizing the importance of nurturing young talent in the field of animation and giving artists, in effect, a green light. The head of the festival’s policy council then spoke about Puyan’s long-term vision, outlining the festival’s role in the future of Iran’s animation industry. The festival secretary’s remarks included a look back at the history behind the idea of “Puyan,” making the sense of belonging and intellectual foundation behind the event feel more tangible to the audience. One particularly interesting and creative detail was the introduction of original music composed specifically for the festival — a sign that “Puyan” pays attention even to the smallest artistic elements.
From “Creation to Delivery”: The Sweetest Anxieties of Artistic Migration
The specialized segment of day one opened with the session “From Creation to Delivery.” Negar Motevalli, a successful director and animator, was the session’s special guest. With the wit and warmth characteristic of artists in this field, she spoke about her personal experiences — from making animation, to breaking into the international scene, to advice for students just starting out. Negar Motevalli also spoke about blending personal concerns with storytelling, and emphasized the importance of not fearing failure. These insights offered students in the field a clear outlook for the road ahead.
Screenings and Special Sessions: Watching the Future
After this rich session, it was time to watch the films — the moment where creativity takes center stage. The festival’s student screening section was, in every sense of the word, electrifying. Audiences watched the students’ diverse and outstanding works with great care and curiosity, casting their votes to choose their favorites. Alongside these domestic screenings, the international screening section also opened a new window, introducing the latest global perspectives and techniques in animation.
The day’s exciting program closed with a special session hosted by Gonbad-e-Kabood Studio. The session focused on the industrial and workshop-based aspects of animation production, offering students fresh insights from the professional world.
Conclusion
From 10 in the morning until 6 in the evening, time flew by, and the Fine Arts Campus proved itself full of energy and dynamism. Day one of the Puyan Festival, with all its excitement, reminded us that the smile of creativity is still alive and flowing in this corner of the art world. Stay tuned for reports on the days to come!
