*Wacom has earned one of the animation industry’s most distinguished technical honors, taking home the Ub Iwerks Award at the 53rd Annie Awards.
Presented by ASIFA-Hollywood, the accolade recognizes technical innovations that have made a significant and enduring mark on the art and business of animation, per the news release. The award carries particular historical weight, bearing the name of animation pioneer Ub Iwerks, whose early contributions helped define the medium.
ASIFA-Hollywood Executive Director Aubry Mintz reflected on how natural the recognition felt once the conversation began. “When Wacom was first suggested to the ASIFA-Hollywood Board of Directors, many of us were genuinely surprised, having assumed the company had already received this honor. It quickly became clear, however, that this was exactly the right moment to recognize their contributions.”
Mintz went on to underscore just how deeply embedded Wacom’s tools have become in professional animation environments. “Wacom has become an industry standard in professional digital pen and tablet technology, to the point where it is nearly impossible to find a studio or production that does not rely on their tools in some capacity.”
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For decades, Wacom’s digital pen and tablet solutions have supported animators at every stage of production, from early sketches and storyboards through to final compositing. The company’s technology has helped artists maintain the feel of hand-drawn expression while adapting to the demands of modern digital pipelines. Wacom has also earned recognition for its commitment to education and collaboration within the broader creative community.
Wacom President and CEO Nobu Ide expressed gratitude for an honor he described as bigger than any single product or milestone. “We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Annie Awards. This award is especially meaningful to us because it does not recognize a single product or moment in time, but rather the long-standing role Wacom has played alongside the animation community,” Ide said.
He added, “For decades, we have worked closely with creators, studios, educators, and partners around the world, learning from them and evolving together as animation itself has evolved. This recognition belongs to the entire creative ecosystem that has trusted, supported, and continuously challenged us over the years. We remain committed to supporting the future of animation by empowering creators and contributing to the communities that inspire our work every day.”
The Annie Awards are widely considered the highest honors in animation, recognizing excellence across both creative and technical categories. Wacom’s recognition places the company among an elite group of innovators credited with advancing the medium.
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