Animation Guild | We are 839 Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1516015
SPRING 2024 7 SONAIYA KELLEY ("Kidding Around") is a film reporter at the Los Angeles Times. The Bronx, N.Y., native previously served as a digital producer at Essence and Allure magazines and has contributed bylines to Complex, Mashable, and Patch.com. An alumna of Stony Brook University's School of Journalism and the Bronx High School of Science, you can find her on X (formerly Twitter) @sonaiyak and on Instagram @sonaiya_k. EVAN HENERSON ("Deal Memos 101") is a lifestyle and entertainment writer based in Los Angeles. His work has appeared in L.A. Parent, TV Guide, Orange Coast Magazine, and the Los Angeles Daily News where he was a features writer and critic for nine years. WHITNEY FRIEDLANDER ("Smart Art") is an entertainment journalist who lives in Los Angeles with her husband, son, daughter, and infamously ornery cat. A former staff writer at Los Angeles Times and Variety, she has also written for Esquire, Marie Claire, and The Washington Post, and currently contributes to CNN. E D I T O R ' S N O T E From the very beginning, when this magazine was just a vision, the aim was always to uplift and elevate the voices of our community, showcasing the brilliance that resides within our diverse group of artists, technicians, writers, and, now, production workers. Over the last five years, the animation industry has experienced highs and lows— unforeseen challenges posed by the global pandemic and unexpected surprises such as flexible schedules and remote work opportunities. We witnessed the bursting of the streaming bubble, and, more recently, the unfortunate wave of layoffs that is affecting so many. Amidst these setbacks, however, the unwavering creativity and talent of our members have stood out as a beacon of inspiration. The arts must be a resilient force. Another example of resilience: Mental health, once a topic shrouded in stigma, has become more accessible and widely discussed. In "The Mind Matters" (p.18), we explore how creators and experts are infusing animated TV shows and films with emotional wellness and mental health themes. It is a testament to the power of storytelling—entertaining, enlightening, and empathetic. An important aspect of animation involves recognizing the responsibility that comes with influencing young minds. In an era where preschool shows hold significant sway over children's development, our feature with the tongue-in-cheek title, "Kidding Around" (p.26), explores how TAG members both educate and entertain our future generations through bold imagery, music, and more. On the legal front, we delve into personal service agreements—"Deal Memos 101" (p.34)—and what TAG members can do above and beyond Union protections to ensure their rights are safeguarded. In an industry where contracts can be intricate and negotiations complex, we hope to empower our members with knowledge. As a community, you deserve to be protected and supported in your endeavors. In every page of this magazine, you'll find the culmination of collaborative efforts, the celebration of creativity, and the power of a unified community. Together, we will continue to create, inspire, and uplift. Alexandra Drosu editor@tag839.org SINCE I CREATED KEYFRAME MAGAZINE, ONE THING REMAINS CONSTANT—THE JOY WE EXPERI- ENCE IN COLLABORATING WITH OUR IMMENSELY TALENTED MEMBERS. CONTRIBUTORS CELEBRATING COLLABORATION, CREATIVITY, AND COMMUNITY