Opening of the 8th International Children’s Animation Film Festival “Animatika” Held at Artek

On August 13, the International Children’s Center “Artek” hosted the opening ceremony of the 8th International Children’s Animation Film Festival “Animatika,” dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the camp’s founding.

This year, the competition received nearly 100 animated films created by children aged 10 to 17 from various regions of Russia and Belarus. Following the selection process, 20 of the best works were included in the festival’s program, and their authors — 36 young animators — came to Artek, where they were awarded winner’s diplomas.

The opening program featured three films that won the competition, as well as the premiere episodes of the animated series Champions (Soyuzmultfilm) and Technolike (Yarko studio), along with the AI-created film Mermaid in a One-Bedroom produced by “Ne Canon” studio. The celebration was enhanced by a life-size Cheburashka character, presented to Artek in honor of its anniversary, and performances by creative ensembles from Uzbekistan and Bashkortostan.

According to Artek Director Konstantin Fedorenko, over eight years the festival has become a vibrant, multifaceted event bringing together creative children and animation industry professionals. Executive Director of The Russian Animated Film Association and festival founder Irina Mastusova noted that “Animatika” has grown into a large-scale cultural event, inspiring young creators and audiences alike.

The 2025 festival program includes premieres of feature-length animated films, CGI projects, as well as auteur and serial screenings. Among the participants are leading Russian studios such as Soyuzmultfilm, Riki Group, Voronezh Animation Studio, Parovoz Studio, Yarko, Melnitsa, and others.