Animadeba 2026 Presented: A Championing of Analog Animation and Artisanal Creation

The 19th edition of Animadeba, the Deba International Animation Film Festival, was officially presented today. The festival will take place from September 9 to 12. At a time marked by artificial intelligence and technological development, this year’s festival is committed to analogue animation and handcrafted creative processes, placing the care and value of the craft at the heart of the event. This edition will welcome two leading international animation filmmakers: Slovenian artist Špela Čadež and Chilean filmmaker Hugo Covarrubias, who was nominated for an Academy Award for his film Bestia. In recognition of Basque animation, the EITB Award will be presented to illustrator and art director José Luis Ágreda during Friday’s gala, which will also feature a screening of the feature film DEKORATUA. A total of 41 short films, selected from the 1,467 works submitted, will compete across the festival’s different sections. This year’s programme also introduces new categories, including Animatxiki and the Young Jury. The programme will be complemented by Animadeba Lab, the festival’s professional programme, as well as masterclasses, concerts by Sara Zozaya, Maskak and SUA, and special events. After the festival, the films will be available to watch on the Filmin platform.