Celebrated Disney Animation Visionaries to Headline Sharjah Animation & Comics Conference 2026
The Sharjah Animation & Comics Conference welcomes four internationally acclaimed creative leaders to its 2026 edition, promising an extraordinary programme of masterclasses, workshops and industry discourse.
The Sharjah Animation & Comics Conference (SACC) has unveiled a distinguished roster of international speakers for its forthcoming 2026 edition, which will unfold across four enriching days from October 22 to 25 at Aljada in Sharjah. Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, the conference promises to convene an exceptional assembly of accomplished industry figures, emerging creative professionals and passionate enthusiasts for an immersive exploration of animation and contemporary screen entertainment.
Among the celebrated speakers joining the conference are Andrew Gordon, Chief Storyteller at EyeTell, whose illustrious career spanning more than two decades has contributed immeasurably to the creation of some of animation’s most beloved and recognisable characters. During his tenure at Pixar, Mr Gordon’s artistry graced films including A Bug’s Life, Finding Nemo, The Incredibles and Ratatouille, whilst his character animation work brought to life iconic figures such as Mike Wazowski in Monsters, Inc., alongside Remy, Gill, Edna Mode and Buzz Lightyear. Following his appointment as Head of Animation at DNEG in London, he served as co-director of Minions: The Rise of Gru.
Doug Sweetland, an American animator and director of considerable renown, played a transformative role in Pixar’s formative years, contributing to Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo and The Incredibles. His exceptional animation work garnered two consecutive Annie Awards, whilst his directorial debut, the Pixar short Presto, received nominations for both the Academy Award and the Annie Award. Together with Mr Gordon, Mr Sweetland will conduct an illuminating masterclass exploring Pixar’s creative and production culture during its pioneering years.
Shuzo John Shiota brings to the conference the perspective of a visionary studio leader as Chief Executive Officer of Polygon Pictures, drawing upon more than four decades of experience within one of Japan’s most internationally respected digital animation establishments. Recognised with a Special Achievement Award at the Japan Media Arts Festival in 2022, Mr Shiota serves as a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and has judged prestigious institutions including SIGGRAPH and the Annecy International Animation Film Festival.
Lauren Mary Kim, a performer of exceptional versatility, has established herself across film, television and interactive entertainment, with credits encompassing The Mandalorian, Furious 7 and Marvel productions. Possessed of substantial expertise in martial arts, dance and acrobatics, Ms Kim served as the motion-capture performer for Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, bringing her specialised knowledge of cinematic combat choreography and advanced lightsaber technique to her masterclass presentation.
The conference programme shall encompass hands-on workshops, industry discussions, film screenings and live performances, offering participants invaluable insights into artistic methodology, production environments and the creative techniques that underpin animation and screen entertainment created for global audiences.
Source: WAM