Combining cutting-edge research, creative residencies and public events, the SE3D animation showcase involved animators, digital artists and production companies in shaping the technology of tomorrow.

In 2004, SE3D gave 11 up-and-coming professional animation groups the chance to create festival quality short films using an experimental utility rendering service developed by HP Labs.

Animators Jaime Pardo and Tia Perkins directed 'Ebenezer Morgan's Photography Emporium', the tale of a battle of wills between 'Prince', a small but strong minded terrier, and esteemed Victorian society photographer Mr Ebenezer Morgan.

In Jaime's words, a key benefit of the project has been the opportunity for growth:

"The Ebenezer Morgan's Photography Emporium development has been nothing but positive for us. It's been nominated for an award at the Cinanima International Animation Festival in Espinho, Portugal (7-13 November 2005) and it's been shown at the Bath Film festival and showcased at Brief Encounters in November."

Tia adds

"We've had some great feedback from Dave Sproxton at Aardman and Stephen Hinde and the team at Hewlett Packard. All in all it's been a very positive and successful experience for us. It's given us the chance to grow as film makers, and we're extremely grateful to HP for allowing us to be part of the scheme and for SWRDA and South West Screen for funding the project.

We're also continuing to send the film out to festivals round the world and hope to get a lot more nominations over the next 12 months, fingers crossed!"

Participants also received Maya® licenses and a programme of workshops, public events and industry mentoring. The SE3D animation showcase is managed by Watershed and sponsored by HP Laboratories and Alias.

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