News and Features
Cardiff Animation Festival 2026
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Cardiff Animation Festival 2026 returns this spring, bringing a packed programme of screenings, workshops, talks, and online events for animation fans of all ages. Running from 23rd to 26th April, with additional online programming continuing until 4th May, the festival transforms Cardiff into a hub of creativity and animated storytelling.
Much of the in-person activity will take place at Chapter Arts Centre in Canton, a cultural venue well known for showcasing independent film, art, and performance. Across the four-day festival, audiences can expect a mix of industry insight, hands-on learning, and celebration of animation in all its forms.
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One of the standout guests this year is Academy Award-nominated animator Joanna Quinn, whose distinctive style and character-led storytelling have made her one of the most respected voices in animation.
On Friday 24th April, Quinn will lead a practical animation workshop from 1:30–5:30pm in the Chapter Media Point. Designed for those interested in the creative process behind animation, the session offers a rare opportunity to explore her techniques, approach, and artistic thinking in an intimate setting.
Earlier that day at 10am, she will also join a panel discussion focused on writing and illustrating books. Taking place in the Chapter Cinema Foyer, the talk will explore how visual storytelling translates across mediums—from animation to publishing—and the creative decisions behind each. -
Book your tickets - 24 April 2026
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For those wanting to dive deeper into Quinn’s work, her acclaimed collaboration with screenwriter Les Mills is brought together in the book Beryl, published by Graffeg.
Beryl offers an inside look at the development of Quinn’s much-loved character, Beryl, and includes sketches, storyboards, finished artwork, and commentary from both creators. It also features a scene-by-scene breakdown of the Oscar- and BAFTA-nominated Affairs of the Art, giving readers a detailed view of how the film was constructed from concept to completion.
Beyond the visuals, the book is filled with anecdotes from Quinn and Mills about their creative journeys, offering both humour and insight into how ideas evolve into fully realised animated works.Whether attending workshops, listening to industry talks, or exploring new work from emerging artists, Cardiff Animation Festival continues to be a key event in the UK animation calendar. With its mix of professional insight and public accessibility, it offers something for both dedicated animators and curious newcomers alike.
For anyone attending this year, the chance to engage with artists like Joanna Quinn and explore behind-the-scenes creative processes makes it an unmissable few days in Cardiff’s cultural calendar.
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