Animation Guild Petitions to Rep Puerto Rico’s Gladius Studios (Exclusive)

Carolyn Giardina
·1 min read

The Animation Guild (IATSE Local 839) has filed a petition to represent and demand voluntary recognition for 14 artists at Gladius Studios in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

This is the first time the Guild organized a studio outside the continental United States and underscores its intent to expand beyond Los Angeles County. That started with a contract at Harriet the Spy studio Titmouse New York, which was ratified unanimously in June. Earlier this month, the Guild announced a voluntary agreement with Austin-headquartered Powerhouse Animation Studios (Castlevania, Sonic Frontiers: Divergence), its first in a so-called right-to-work state.

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“This campaign is the latest example that The Animation Guild has the backs of animation artists and workers.” said Guild organizer Ben Speight of Fantomville studio Gladius’ petition, in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “These workers simply want a seat at the table with their employer and are determined to ensure that animation is able to thrive in Puerto Rico in a just and sustainable way.”

The affected workers include modelers and a visual development artist, animator, concept artist, graphic designer, UI/UX artist, compositor, lighting artist, gameplay programmer and rigger.

“We wanted to have a voice and be heard. But also we want to make Gladius a more sustainable place to work, opening more doors to retain more creative talent in Puerto Rico,” said modeler Sylvette Rosario in a statement to THR.

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