Unleashing Imagination: 17th Annual RCC Animation Showcase Shines Spotlight on Student Talent

The 17th Annual Riverside City College (RCC) Animation Showcase was held on Thursday, June 8th, at the RCC Digital Library Auditorium. Over 100 guests attended the event, which featured a selection of animated short films created by students from the RCC Art and Art History Department.

A highlight of the evening was the recognition of LesleighWalker, an RCC Art and Animation alum, who was honored as the RCC Animation Alumni of Distinction. She received a scholarship from the college President's Office in honor of her achievements. Lesleigh Walker's journey in animation began at RCC, where she displayed exceptional talent and dedication. She received the 2013 Best in Show award and the 2014 Trophy award. In 2015, she held the position of Art Club President, further demonstrating her leadership skills within the department. After graduating from RCC, Lesleigh continued her education at CSU, Fullerton.

The showcase itself, an annual tradition, highlights the best works produced during the academic year and provides a platform for emerging talent. The animation classes, led by experienced instructors including Will Kim, Mollie Ong, Evan English, SunYoung Moon, and Stephanie Mercado, brought diverse expertise from networks such as PBS, TBS, Netflix, HBO, and Disney.

The students demonstrated exceptional creativity and technical skills, resulting in a collection of animated shorts that captivated the audience. The films showcased the students' dedication, passion, and professionalism. 

Several films stood out and received recognition for their outstanding contributions. Jayson King received the "Best in Show" award, while Savannah Montes was honored with the "Best Animation Production Award." Timothy Proulx's mastery of animation principles earned him the "Best Animation Principles Award," and Yamilet Macedo's exemplary storyboarding skills garnered her the "Best Storyboarding Award." Jaime Suarez was acknowledged for his exceptional poster design, winning the "Best Poster Design Award."

In addition to these individual awards, Bryanna Gulley, David Castellano, Kimberly Lam, Luke Grenier, Alan Garcia, and Isabel Ayala received Special Jury Awards for their remarkable contributions to the showcase. These accolades reflect the outstanding quality and creativity demonstrated by these talented students.

For those who missed the event or wish to watch the award-winning films, they can be accessed on the RCC Animation Showcase's YouTube playlist at the following link: 17th RCC Animation Showcase Winning Films.

To stay updated with the latest news and information about the RCC Art and Art History Department and the animation program, follow their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/artinriverside, subscribe to their YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/therccart, and check out their Instagram accounts @rccanimation and @rccart.

The 17th Annual RCC Animation Showcase celebrated the artistic accomplishments of the students and showcased the immense talent and potential within the RCC Art and Art History Department. The event continues to grow in popularity, serving as a testament to the dedication and passion of the students and faculty members involved and the bright future ahead for the world of animation.