Ülo Pikkov, a film director and Professor of Animation at the Estonian Academy of Arts (EKA), has been awarded the “Golden Dinosaur” special prize at the Etiuda&Anima International Film Festival in Kraków, Poland. This is one of the most prestigious international accolades recognizing excellence in the teaching and development of the art of animation. The award honors outstanding filmmakers who, alongside their own creative work, have made a significant contribution to training the next generation of animators.
Ülo Pikkov began teaching animation at the Estonian Academy of Arts in 2006. Over the past two decades, he has played a key role in the development and internationalization of animation education in Estonia, mentoring young filmmakers and helping to transform the EKA Animation Department into an internationally recognized center for study. Currently, Pikkov serves as a Professor of Animation at EKA and heads the Animation Department.
The program at the Kraków festival placed a special focus on Pikkov’s pedagogical work. In addition to a retrospective of his own films, a separate screening was held to showcase the work of animation students from the Estonian Academy of Arts.
Pikkov has authored the book *Animasoofia* (“Animasophy”), which explores animation theory, and holds a doctoral degree in animation studies. Beyond his teaching, Pikkov is an internationally acclaimed animation director and film producer. His better-known films include “Body Memory”, “Tik-Tak”, “Empty Space”, “Reunion”, and “The Sewing Machine”. Ülo Pikkov is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.