Usman Riaz

Artist, Filmmaker, Musician, Performer

Usman Riaz is a multi-talented artist, animator, and composer, recognized for his exceptional work in the field of animation and storytelling. As the Co-Founder and Director of Mano Animation Studios, he has dedicated over a decade to producing the hand-drawn animated feature film, "The Glassworker," which intricately explores themes of love, war, and art. Usman's commitment to his craft is evident in the detailed storyboarding for the film, which has garnered international acclaim at prestigious film festivals such as ANNECY, Shanghai International Film Festival, and the Hiroshima Animation Festival. As a TED Senior Fellow, he shares his profound insights on music, animation, and social change, aiming to inspire and empower audiences globally through the transformative power of art. Usman's poignant narratives delve into the complexities of relationships, societal norms, and the impact of war on children, resonating with viewers worldwide and paving the way for future creative endeavors that aim to inspire individuals to pursue their dreams.

Animation and music.

I am currently working on Pakistan's first hand-drawn animated film. Would love to spread the idea that hand-drawn animation is something that needs to be maintained in a world of (fantastic) CGI

Animation, architecture, art, composing, design, editing, film directing, film production, music, performance, writing

Recognizing lightsaber props (I'm a replica collector)