A New Era for Animation: Danny Lin Takes the Helm of The Animation Guild
It's a pivotal moment for the animation industry, and at the heart of it all is a changing of the guard. Danny Lin, a talented writer and storyboard artist known for his work on shows like The Adventures of Puss in Boots and Adventure Time: Fiona & Cake, has been elected as the new president of The Animation Guild, a union representing over 5,000 members. This follows an unopposed run, signaling a strong vote of confidence from the guild.
Lin's swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for December 2nd. In a statement, he expressed his gratitude and honor, while also acknowledging the challenges ahead. He highlighted the struggles many members face, including job losses and financial difficulties, as studios grapple with production cuts and the rise of Generative AI. But here's where it gets controversial... Lin's statement also touched upon the controversial topic of how some employers are using layoffs to boost stock value.
Lin's vision for the future emphasizes hope, community, solidarity, and the importance of art. He sees these qualities reflected in the newly elected executive board and the entire membership. He has vowed to continue organizing, fighting, and winning for the guild.
Joining Lin in leadership is Roger Oda, an art director and background designer who has worked on projects like X-Men '97 and Batman: The Long Halloween, Part One. Oda, also running unopposed, will serve as vice president. The election also saw the re-election of Steve Kaplan as the union’s business representative and Paula Spence elected as treasurer. Spence, an art director on Solar Opposites and Plankton: The Movie, currently serves as The Animation Guild’s recording secretary.
Outgoing president Jeanette Moreno King, who will step down after six years, was elected secretary. Moreno King, the director of Q-Force and The Freak Brothers, ran on a platform of strengthening and modernizing the union while protecting members' rights. Current executive board member David DePasquale was elected sergeant-at-arms, promising to prioritize listening to and engaging with all members.
And this is the part most people miss... The election also brought in a wave of new faces to the executive board, including Marissa Bernstel, Candice Stephenson, Rachael Cohen, Chrissy Fellmeth, Andy Garner-Flexner, Roma Murphy, Dan Pinto, Kolja Erman, KC Johnson, Mike Rianda, and Claire Morrissey. Marissa Bernstel, Candice Stephenson, and Rachel Cohen will serve as trustees starting in December.
All elected members will serve three-year terms. The election, which ran from October 14th to November 7th, was overseen by AAA.
What do you think about the challenges facing the animation industry? Do you agree with Lin's vision for the future? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
