The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839, has achieved voluntary recognition as the bargaining representative of 129 artists and production workers at Powerhouse Animation in Austin, Texas. This groundbreaking agreement has been hailed as a historic moment for the animation industry. It is especially significant as Texas becomes the first right-to-work state, and the second state outside of California, to have union-represented animation workers.
Last month, the guild successfully ratified their first collective bargaining agreement with Titmouse Studio in New York, further solidifying their position as the leading union in the animation industry.
The guild and Powerhouse Animation will now move forward with collective bargaining for a first-time contract. Powerhouse Animation has an impressive track record, having worked on a wide range of animation styles, from gritty anime to feature animation to web-based cartoon animation. They have been entrusted with some of the world’s most beloved brands, including Castlevania, Masters of the Universe, Mickey Mouse, Marvel Comics, and DC Comics characters.
Steve Kaplan, the guild’s business representative, expressed his satisfaction with the recognition of Powerhouse Animation’s artistic and production staff. He believes that this further establishes The Animation Guild as the standard-setter for workplace conditions in the animation industry. Kaplan also commended Powerhouse leadership for their willingness to reach a voluntary recognition agreement and looks forward to building on their existing good relationship in Los Angeles to secure a first contract with the Austin studio.
Brad Graeber, CEO and chief creative officer of Powerhouse Animation, emphasized the studio’s commitment to putting their talented artists first. He acknowledged the industry’s tendency to exploit talent and stated that Powerhouse has always strived to be a transparent and fair company. When they learned of their staff’s desire to organize, they worked with the union to ensure a fair recognition that suited their unique studio in Texas.
MinJi Yoon, a character artist and member of the union’s organizing committee, expressed her pride in Powerhouse management’s voluntary recognition of the union. She highlighted the sense of community and the opportunity to advocate for fair working conditions with the support of the union. Yoon also expressed her excitement about standing in solidarity with other entertainment workers in America during this critical time for the future of the industry.
Suzanne Sharp, another character artist and organizing committee member, shared her personal joy in witnessing her coworkers’ commitment and compassion for each other. She looks forward to collaborating with the studio’s leadership to create the best possible environment for animation workers to pursue their passion.
This is an exciting development for the animation industry, and it sets a positive precedent for the rights and representation of animation workers in Texas and beyond.
