5x Must-sees The Art Department

Do you want to know everything about the design process of films, animation, and games? Then make sure to attend The Art Department. On April 18 and 19, Playgrounds organizes this international festival in Eindhoven where young creators, established professionals, students, industry experts, and fans come together. For two days, the world's leading designers and filmmakers will tell you about their experiments, successes, and failures. A festival packed with inspiration for every creative maker! Here are this year's must-sees. 

Anna Mantzaris

Last year she went viral with her Christmas commercial for Apple, this year she gets acknowledged for it at TAD 2024. Anna Mantzaris has already touched many hearts with her humorous and 'soft' characters, and that hasn't gone unnoticed: meanwhile, more than 50 industry awards adorn her shelf. How do you recognize Anna's work? Her fluffy characters! She'll tell you all about her work process, concepts, inspiration, and her fluffy friends during her artist talk.

Rob Bliss

Concept artist Rob Bliss contributed to blockbusters like The Dark Knight Rises and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. In the industry, they also call him 'the father of Dobby.' With such a nickname, you hardly need an introduction. Rob Bliss designed beloved characters like Dobby, and his work shines on silver screens all over the world. He takes the stage during The Art Department, sharing his passion.

Jeffrey Thompson

When we say Pickle, you say? Fans will quickly think of the legendary 'Pickle Rick' scene from the series Rick and Morty. What does that have to do with TAD 2024? The art director of this hilarious show, Jeffrey Thompson, is giving a presentation at the festival this year. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Spider-Man, Netflix, and Disney are also on his resume. In short, he has a lot to share!

Karla Ortiz

Karla Ortiz is a true artist. With illustrations and realistic renders, she contributed to films like Jurassic World, Black Panther, and the game World of Warcraft. Her work has already won many awards, which doesn't surprise us. Karla's illustrations open up fairytale worlds and completely immerse you into the story. Learn more about her work and design process during her artist talk.

Tim Allen

During The Art Department, animators (and fans) are in for a treat every year. This year, you'll meet legends again, including Tim Allen. You probably know his work: Chicken Run, Shaun the Sheep, and Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio. With so many successful projects and 20 years of experience, there's a lot to learn for young colleagues. A must for this list!