The Sustainability Animation Residency - SAR is launching its fourth open call to submit applications.

SAR was set up to help amplify the urgency of environmental action with the powerful tools of animation. During the six-week SAResidency, the winner and chosen director will be able to develop a short film project tackling environmental topics in any chosen animation technique.

SAR is delighted to announce two new Principal Partners: Mathieu Rey, co-founder of TNZPV, animation studio and production company, Arles, as well as Eleanor Coleman, veteran producer of prize-winning animation feature films, Paris. Both Mathieu and Eleanor have been, and will remain on the SAR Jury.

SAR’s objective is to award one of the competing proposals for an ‘Eco Ani Short’ touching on any aspect of the environment such as climate change, endangered oceans, resource scarcity, future of food and agriculture, future cities, energy supply, mobility, species diversity, waste management, pollution, health, sustainable fashion, and any other suitable topics.

Situated near Arles, SAR seeks to tap into the unique pool of a world-class animation industry based in and around Arles, Avignon, Montpellier and Marseille, supporting creative talent in a global context.

The director will have the opportunity to engage in weekly meetings with either local animation professionals or international coaches online. Furthermore, the SAResidency includes travel, local transport, accommodation, a Per Diem, as well as a two-day visit to the Annecy Animation Festival, and a celebratory evening, CineSAR, with a final presentation of the SAResident’s project.

Applicants must be a graduate of a higher education art, film, or animation school and therefore qualify as a director or creative professional.

Important dates for applicants:

Submission deadline: 15 January 2024
SAR Shortlist announcement: Mid-February 2024
SAR Winner announcement: Mid-March 2024
SAR Residency, St. Remy de Provence: 18 May-June 29 June 2024
2 Days at Annecy Festival: 9-15 June 2024
Project Presentation at CinéSAR evening at the Residence: 28 June 2024

To apply you need:

A motivation letter why SAR is important for your project.

A synopsis or treatment of your binding project proposal, containing a written description and outline, supported with graphics, and or sketches.
The topic of sustainability: intentions, purpose, and possible impact of the project in an environmental context.
A mood board and soundscape including musical cues, and ideally some technical notes.
Your Curriculum Vitae
Your Showreel and previous works, including student works.
You must be able to commit to being present the entire time throughout the six-week residency
your application document must not be longer than 30 pages