International award for Cinema faculty member

Posted Fri, 09/26/2008 - 7:55am by Matt Itelson

Karl Cohen, a lecturer in Cinema, was awarded the 30th Annual ASIFA Prize from the Association Internationale du Film d' Animation at the Ottawa 08 International Animation Festival held Sept. 17-21.

Cohen, a noted animation historian, was honored for his continuing contributions to ASIFA and his efforts to preserve the history of the art form. He is the author of the book "Forbidden Animation: Censored Cartoons and Black Listed Animators in America" and serves as president of ASIFA's San Francisco Chapter. Cohen has written hundreds of articles for international publications on aspects of the animation industry, history and education. His next book will cover animated propaganda.

"In everything he writes he has only the progress, survival, and preservation of our art as his goal. I love that man," animator Nina Paley said.

Founded in France in 1960, ASIFA promotes opportunities for professionals in animation to share information and network, the preservation of the rights of animators and the art form itself, and progress toward peace and mutual understanding through animation. The organization has about 4500 members worldwide and 27 active chapters.

Photo: Normand Roger