Get ready to be amazed because the Ibero-American animation scene is booming like never before! The Quirino Awards are back in Tenerife, and this year’s edition is breaking all the records with a staggering 273 submissions—the highest number in its nine-year history. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: the Quirino Awards aren’t just about handing out trophies anymore. They’ve transformed into a dynamic, two-pillar powerhouse, blending artistic recognition with a robust suite of industry activities. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about celebrating talent; it’s about building a sustainable future for Ibero-American animation.
This year’s call for submissions has shattered expectations, drawing works from 20 countries, including Andorra’s first-ever entry. Brazil, in particular, is stealing the spotlight with a 50% surge in submissions compared to 2024, highlighting its growing clout in the regional animation landscape. From feature films and video game animations to music videos and school shorts, the diversity of entries is a testament to the sector’s vibrant creativity. But what does this mean for the industry? Is this growth a sign of animation’s rising cultural and economic importance, or is it just a fleeting trend? Let’s dive deeper.
The 2026 Awards ceremony, scheduled for April 15-17 in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, marks a return to the city that hosted its first two editions. This move isn’t just nostalgic—it’s strategic. Tenerife, backed by the Tenerife Council and its film commission, is doubling down on animation as a key sector, with tax incentives and emerging studios like 3Doubles, B-Water, and Atlantis turning the island into a major player in Spain’s animation boom. But does this focus on local growth risk overshadowing smaller markets in the Ibero-American region?
The Quirino Awards’ new structure is a game-changer. One pillar focuses solely on the Awards, celebrating excellence across 23 countries. The other consolidates industry activities into three flagship programs: the Co-Production and Business Forum, the Quirino Lab, and the Futures Lab. These initiatives aren’t just about networking—they’re about equipping professionals with the tools to navigate new market dynamics, emerging technologies, and long-term strategic planning. But with so much emphasis on business and training, are we losing sight of animation as an art form?
Last year’s winners, including David Baute’s Black Butterflies (Best Film), Brazil’s Irmão do Jorel (Best Series), and Uruguay’s Los carpinchos (Best Short Film), showcased the region’s incredible talent. This year, with a broad coalition of sponsors and collaborators, the Quirino Awards are poised to do more than just recognize greatness—they aim to structure the market, raise professional standards, and foster international collaboration. But can they truly bridge the gap between artistic ambition and commercial viability?
As the Quirino Awards continue to evolve, they’re not just celebrating the present—they’re shaping the future. What role do you think initiatives like this play in the global animation industry? And how can we ensure that smaller players aren’t left behind in the race for innovation and growth? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation that could define the next decade of Ibero-American animation!
