Animation Guild Reaches “Historic” Deal To Represent Artists & Production Workers At Powerhouse Animation In Texas
deadline.comThe Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839, has been voluntarily recognized as the bargaining representative of 129 artists and production workers at Powerhouse Animation in Austin, Texas.
The guild called it an “historic voluntary agreement.” According to the guild, “This marks a significant moment for the animation industry, as Texas becomes the first right-to-work state and second state outside of California to have union-represented animation workers.” Last month, guild members ratified their first collective bargaining agreement with Titmouse Studio in New York.
The guild and the company will next engage in collective bargaining for a first-time contract. According to the company, “We have worked in almost every style of traditional animation, from gritty anime to feature animation to web-based cartoon animation.
Powerhouse has been trusted with some of the world’s most important brands: Castlevania, Masters of the Universe, Mickey Mouse, Marvel Comics, and DC Comics characters.” “Representing the Powerhouse artistic and production staff further solidifies The Animation Guild as the Union setting the standard for workplace conditions in the animation industry,” says Steve Kaplan, the guild’s business rep. “I also want to commend Powerhouse leadership in reaching a voluntary recognition agreement.
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