#Japan #Tokyo #student creativity #Animation Festival #ICAF 2025

Inter-College Animation Festival 2025

The Inter-College Animation Festival (ICAF) is set to make waves as it returns for its 23rd edition from October 10 to 13, 2025. This year's festival boasts participation from a record 35 institutions across Japan, showcasing a remarkable collection of 247 student animation films.

The central theme for this year’s festival, “Complex Worlds: Resonance and Creation,” reflects the multifaceted environments students navigate today. Each participating student has harnessed their unique perspectives and creativity to produce works that both challenge and inspire. The festival aims to foster an atmosphere of resonance and collaboration among attendees, creating a space for new artistic dialogues and innovative ideas to emerge.

Event Highlights

Festival Overview

ICAF 2025 will take place at the National Art Center, Tokyo, a venue known for its stunning architecture and vibrant art scene. The festival will feature a variety of programs including exclusive screenings, guest lectures, and competitions, engaging attendees in meaningful discussions about the future of animation.

Key Details:

• - Dates: October 10 (Friday) – October 13 (Monday, public holiday)
• - Location: National Art Center, Tokyo, 3rd Floor Auditorium / Training Room, 7-22-2 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• - Special Website: ICAF 2025 Special Site from September 17 to October 25.

This year's festival is unprecedented, with contributions from leading art schools such as Tama Art University, Tokyo University of the Arts, and Musashino Art University among others. Each school has curated its own selection of films, providing a comprehensive look at the diverse talents emerging from the next generation of animators.

Special Programs

ICAF 2025 will also feature a series of engaging talks and events designed to spotlight the global perspectives and potential of student animation. One notable discussion, “Global Perspectives: The Future of Student Animation,” will be held on October 11, featuring successful alumni who have gained international recognition at various festivals including Annecy. They will share insights into their journeys, showcasing how they broke onto the global stage and the impact of their works in the animation community.

The festival will not shy away from honoring significant figures in animation either. A special retrospective program titled “My Story: Memories with Masaki Mori” will pay tribute to revered Professor Masaki Mori, a key figure in the realm of clay animation and a longtime ICAF committee member. His contributions to the field are immeasurable, having taught and inspired many students who now contribute richly to the industry.

Another fascinating element this year is the direct participation of festival attendees, where individuals can submit their own works for feedback in the ICAF Toranoana: Everyone’s Work Showcase on October 12, allowing budding artists to engage in constructive critique and networking.

Conclusion

ICAF 2025 is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of artistic expression among aspiring animators. With over 240 films to be showcased, attendees can expect an immersive experience that captures the essence of student animation today. Don’t miss this chance to see the future of animation take shape and enjoy the wealth of creativity that these young talents have to offer in a setting designed for inspiration and dialogue.

Join us for what promises to be an unforgettable four days of animation brilliance at ICAF 2025!