Pasadena Convention Center
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Kris Wimberly (He/Him)

Kris Wimberly is Co-Founder and Head of Creative for Studio Smokescreen, an independent, Black-owned animation studio dedicated to leading significant changes in diversity and inclusion across the animation industry. The first of its kind, this full-scale Los Angeles-based “bridge” studio is designed to uplift marginalized and underrepresented talent striving to break into roles on big studio projects. A graduate of California State University, Fullerton, Kris worked as a Disneyland custodian and climbed the ranks to pursue his passion for animation. Today, Kris serves as Supervising Director on Disney’s upcoming “Sofia the First: Royal Magic,” sequel to the Emmy® and Humanitas Award-winning “Sofia the First.” A classically trained director and storyboard artist, Kris specializes in comedy & action-comedy. His work spans 2D, CG, and Flash animation, script-driven & storyboard-driven narratives, and film and television for all ages. His credits include HBO Max’s “Close Enough,” Disney’s “Elena of Avalor,” Universal’s “Curious George 4: Royal Monkey,” Nickelodeon’s “SpongeBob SquarePants” and Cartoon Network’s “Teen Titans Go!

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Building Creative Studios

Room 104-105 | Maureen Fan | Kris Wimberly | CARLOS GRANGEL | Renée di Cherri

Running an animation studio means balancing artistry with business. This panel explores how studio leaders navigate creative teams, original projects, and industry pressures, sharing lessons on what it takes to build and sustain a thriving creative company.

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