Are you an aspiring animator struggling to get your work noticed? Women In Animation (WIA) is stepping up to bridge that critical gap! They've just launched an exciting new online portfolio review program, and the application window is officially open.
This initiative is a direct response to what their members have been asking for most: personalized feedback from the very people who hire animators, visual effects artists, and game developers. WIA, a non-profit dedicated to fairness in animation, recognized that many emerging women and non-binary professionals need a clearer path to showcase their talent.
But here's where it gets really exciting: The first session, happening on February 24th, will be led by Matt Roberts, a senior artistic recruiter from the renowned Walt Disney Animation Studios. Initially, the focus will be on character animation, story, and visual development portfolios. Future sessions are planned to cover even more specializations and will feature reviewers from a wide array of leading studios.
As WIA president Marge Dean put it, "This new initiative is more than a service; it’s a supportive ecosystem. For our members, it’s a direct path to growth, and for our partners, it’s a window to the talent of tomorrow." This program aims to be a vital part of WIA's mission to champion women and nonbinary professionals.
And this is the part most people miss: The review process is designed to be highly interactive and beneficial for all participants. Here's a quick breakdown:
- WIA members can sign up for virtual review sessions where industry pros will offer concrete, actionable advice on portfolios.
- If you're a Creator-level+ member and want your work critiqued live, you'll need to apply specifically for that opportunity.
- Maker-level+ members can attend the sessions to learn from the reviews and ask questions.
- The industry reviewers will select 5-6 portfolios to go through live during each event.
Don't wait too long to seize this chance! Applications are open right now but will close on January 27th. WIA plans to host multiple portfolio review events throughout the year, so even if you miss this first one, more opportunities are coming.
This program is a fantastic example of WIA's commitment to dismantling barriers in the animation industry by providing essential resources, mentorship, and professional connections.
What do you think? Is this the kind of direct industry access that aspiring animators truly need to break through? Or do you believe portfolio reviews are overemphasized compared to other skills? Share your thoughts below!
