https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/california-animation-work-suffering-outsourcing-concerns-1236206301/
California’s animation industry is struggling as more work is being outsourced to countries with lower production costs. Many local jobs are at risk, and there's concern about losing expertise in the state. Industry pros are pushing for better protections and incentives to keep work in California and support local talent. How do you think the animation industry can balance cost with keeping jobs local?
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This is in reference to the study I posted a few weeks ago, https://www.stage32.com/lounge/animation/Terrific-Industry-Overview
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All points to AI production.
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I know that California is still a powerhouse in sheer animation creativity. However, which other states are best for producing quality animation, no matter the cost? Which nations are now most popular due to lower costs? Plus, are these nations able to produce high quality work despite lower costs? I ask as someone who has three planned animated series and two animated films.
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Laurie Ashbourne - I almost forgot about that! You are absolutely right. It's interesting because I hear stories like the one I posted but then I also hear about how animation is growing and how projections for the future are looking up. Is it that California film/animation is losing ground while the outside world is growing?
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Wyman Brent A lot of animators have continued to work remotely across the globe. There's also a difference between artist and location. One does not beget the other. That said, there are small studios in Austin TX, Georgia (Savannah and Atlanta) and the Northeast, Philly, NY, NJ -- there are some residual artists in the Connecticut area from when Blue Sky was there and some in Orlando. The article and report is in reference to why the states have lost a lot of business, and it all has to do with tax incentives, not talent.
Outside of the US, Canada, France, Spain, Brazil, Ireland are the hotbeds. But really inexpensive studios are in Abu Dhabi, India, Pakistan, Egypt. You just have to sort out the style and quality that's suitable for the project.
As I've said many times, the animation industry is comparatively small to live-action, and if you want to be a part of it, it is far more welcoming, you just have to immerse yourself and educate yourself on the various service providers and studio structures.
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Hi Laurie,
I wanted to sincerely thank you for your kind and thoughtful response on Stage 32. It meant a lot, especially coming from someone whose creative journey I truly admire. Your Benjamin Franklin quote also struck a chord with me — my life has definitely been the kind of story people write about, and now I’m pouring that same energy into writing stories of my own.
I’ve been developing several original series (both animated and live-action), a stage musical, and a substantial catalog of over 200 original songs — many written in under ten minutes, thanks to what I call my “creative synesthesia and ADHD with hyperfocus.”
I’d love to connect more directly if that ever feels appropriate. I think we may share a belief in building things that matter, and I’d be honored to share more about what I’m working on when the time is right.