Animators welcome back TTT
Local animators are welcoming the return of Trinidad and Tobago Television (TTT). In a statement, the TT Animated Network (TTAN) said it welcomes and supports any initiative, "which seeks to sustainably enable the production and distribution of local content." TTAN said its membership and animation partners in the sector are looking forward to being part of consultation process regarding the transition of the Caribbean New Media Group (CNMG) to the new TTT.
Noting the animation sector has grown significantly over the last 15 years, TTAN said some of the major developments include the establishment of small animation studios, an army of freelance animation practitioners, a nine-year running Diploma in Animation at the University of TT, the inclusion of animation and video gaming development studies at the secondary school level and the Caribbean Animation and New Media Festival which is hosted in TT.
TTAN said in light of Cabinet's recent decision to wind up CNMG and re-launch TTT, any investment by the State which is focused on promoting more local content in a sustainable way, must consider certain factors. The group said this includes, "the most effective manner to connect to the widest applicable audience for a greater share of their viewing time." TTAN suggested that any investment by the State towards developing a new broadcast channel for local content must transcend the typical cable TV structure.
TTAN said this investment should include a strategy that encompasses significant investment in new animation and film production. The group also said legislation is necessary for the local film, animation and media industry to consistently provide content for a local platform in a sustainable way that allows the industry to grow.
TTAN said a new local content on television initiative will only make an impact if production support from other similar government agencies and public/private sector grant funding is available to support animation and film content production.
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"Animators welcome back TTT"