The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839, in conjunction with the International Alliance of Stage Employees (IATSE) and the University of Massachusetts Amherst Labor Center, has released a comprehensive study examining pay equity across various crafts within The Animation Guild. The study highlights potential pay gaps that are likely a legacy of historically female-dominated crafts.
The study, conducted with a job evaluation tool (JET), revealed disparities in three key crafts: Color Designer, Animation Checker and Storyboard Revisionist. One of the most striking revelations from the study involved the comparison between Color Designers and Background Painters. Despite the equivalent complexity, skills and responsibilities required for both roles, Color Designers were found to be earning significantly less than their Background Painters counterparts. The job evaluation tool used in the study determined that there was no justification for this disparity based on core pay factors.
The report suggests that this inequity may stem from the historical context of Color Designers emerging from the traditionally female-dominated Ink & Paint department. This legacy appears to contribute to the undervaluation and subsequent underpayment of Color Designers compared to Background Painters.
“This study confirms what members working in the craft of Color Design have known all along — that their work requires just as much skill, effort, and responsibility as any other Design craft, and should be valued no less,” said Teri Hendrich Cusumano, The Animation Guild Vice President. The Los Angeles-based painter has worked as a color designer, color supervisor and background designer/artist on shows like Krapopolis, Duncanville, Final Space and Animals.
The complete report is available at animationguild.org/IATSEPayEquityStudyLocal839.
The Animation Guild, also known as Local 839 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), was founded in 1952. The labor union represents more than 5,000 artists, technicians and writers in the animation industry, advocating for workers to improve wages and conditions.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst Labor Center is dedicated to advancing knowledge and promoting social justice through rigorous research and education on labor issues. The center strives to empower workers and advocates for equitable labor practices across various industries.
[Source: The Animation Guild]
