Laura Tofarides

Laura is a Welsh director, animator, and puppet maker based in Bristol. With a decade of experience in stop motion animation she has contributed to a diverse range of projects both in the UK and internationally. She studied a BA in Animation from UWE Bristol and continued her training with NFTS and Aardman Academy. In addition to her animation work she crafts intricate stop motion puppets, helps to curate several animation festivals and shares her insights through talks & workshops. Continuously seeking new adventures, Laura is passionate about pushing the boundaries of her craft and inspiring the next generation of animators.

Laura and Josh will discuss their journeys in stop motion animation, exploring the projects & experiences which have shaped their varied careers. Laura will reflect on the lengthy five-year production of their latest short film while juggling full time work as an animator, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of creative work and how one project can inform another. Josh will share insights into his puppet-making process and animation on the film. They will give an insight into independent short film making as well as their work on some of the biggest stop motion productions in the UK.