The Afterimage Animation Festival celebrates the creativity, storytelling, and craftsmanship of student animators across 2D, 3D, and Stop Motion mediums. Open to all San Francisco Academy of Art University students (both past and present), this week-long event will feature curated screenings, peer networking opportunities, and an awards night recognizing outstanding achievement in animation.

This is more than a showcase — it's a real festival experience, complete with jury selections, multiple programs, and industry-inspired award categories.

Awards & Prizes

🏆 Awards & Categories

Jury Awards to be decided and will represent achievement in design, direction, sound, music and creativity.

Audience Awards awards to be decided by program.

Rules & Terms

You must be a current or former student of the Academy of Art in San Francisco with a valid ID# for your film to be considered.

Eligibility & Submission Guidelines

Films can be any length but must be completed short films.

Open to: All current or former students of the Academy of Art University.

Accepted Formats:

2D Animation
3D Animation
Stop Motion Animation

Completion Date: Films of any year are eligible, provided they are fully completed at time of submission.

Submission Deadline: November 7, 2025

Submission Format: Vimeo, Youtube Link or Film Freeway Upload

Note: Films may be programmed based on year of completion, style, or thematic grouping depending on volume and curation.