APES 19 APES is an annual forum for professionals (scholars and practitioners) concerned in advancing and promoting animation as therapeutic practice, educational technique, and as a tool for social engagement. The symposium offers an alternative view of the potential of animation beyond artistic expression, entertainment or publicity, and identifies new terrains in the interface of animation with society.

Intrinsically interdisciplinary, APES encourages groundbreaking research on the intersection of animation arts and public engagement to identify new fields of inquiry and study vis-à-vis the connection of animation and the public sphere. APES brings together scholars and researchers from areas such as health/well-being; social impact and activism; therapeutic studies, including art and psychotherapies; and educational initiatives.

APES invites scholars and professionals to propose papers, presentations, short film screenings, photographic essays, and interactive talks. Submissions are sought that respond to one or more of the following themes related to animation: Audiences, Reception, Activism, Social Impact, Cultural Practice, Policy, Cross-Platform Communication, Health and Well-Being, Social Institutions, Art Therapy/Psychotherapy, Education (as and for), Therapy, Artifacts, Political Essay.

Keynote Speakers: Dr. Bella Honess Roe (University of Surrey, UK) and Dr. Dan Torre (RMIT, Melbourne, Australia)

The symposium is endorsed by HEART U.K, the Animation Academy (U.K) and the School of Arts, Drama and English, Loughborough University. It is sponsored by the TTU Office for Research and Innovation, the Art History Area in the Texas Tech School of Art, and the Society of Animation Studies (SAS).