Press Release:
The annual Sklar Creative Visionary Award will be presented to Academy Award winner Hayao Miyazaki, creator of some of the most beloved animated films in recognition of his commitment to artistic excellence throughout his extensive body of work. Seen as one of the most influential creators of cinematic animation worldwide, Miyazaki has contributed masterfully to the art of storytelling and is an inspiration to animators, directors, and writers everywhere.
The Sklar Creative Visionary Award is presented annually by Ryman Arts to an individual whose distinctive contribution to the creative community and whose leadership in the art world has made a significant impact. Hayao Miyazaki, whose work spans over fifty-years, truly exemplifies this award. The artist and director has 10 feature films and 11 television series to his credits and is currently working on a new project at his animation film studio, Studio Ghibli in Tokyo, Japan. Along with many other accolades, Miyazaki was presented with the 2014 Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences Honorary Oscar for Lifetime Achievement along with two Oscar nominations and one win for the 2001 animated film, Spirited Away.
“Ryman Arts is thrilled that the legendary Hayao Miyazaki will be the next recipient of the Sklar Creative Visionary Award. His incredible work has advanced the art of visual storytelling and influenced the entire genre of animation, while inspiring us all. I can’t imagine any other individual who so strongly exemplifies the essence of the visionary creativity which this award celebrates,” stated Phil Hettema, Ryman Arts Board President and President and Creative Executive of The Hettema Group.
The Sklar Award is named in honor of the co-founders of Ryman Arts, Marty and Leah Sklar. The late Marty Sklar was the legendary president of Walt Disney Imagineering. His wife, Leah Sklar is an education advocate and played a key role in defining the mission of Ryman Arts. This Los Angeles based non-profit has engaged over 21,000 youth from diverse communities around Southern California since 1990 and mentored over 6,000 promising art students, helping them prepare for a creative life through college and beyond. Many alumni currently work in positions in the entertainment field. Last year’s Sklar Award recipient, Kevin Feige, and his Marvel Studios creative team, were some of many professional mentors who worked with Ryman Arts students, believing in the mission of giving back to the next generation of artists.
The Sklar Creative Visionary Award will be presented at the annual Ryman Arts dinner & program on Friday, October 25, 2019, 5:30pm-10pm, Neuehouse, 6121 Sunset Bl., Los Angeles. Tickets are available to the public at the link…
