Lee Dror is an independent animation filmmaker and visual artist based in Tel Aviv, Israel. Known for her distinctive style that blends traditional techniques with contemporary themes, her work often explores topics such as family, grief, belonging, and femininity. She is a graduate of the Screen-Based Arts Department at the Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.).
Artistic Career
Animation and Filmmaking
Lee Dror has gained international recognition for her animated films, which combine emotional storytelling with visually captivating artistry. Her most recent work, Pisces (2023), has been longlisted for the 2024 Academy Awards in the category of "Best Animated Short Film." Other accolades include:
- Best Animation Short at Student Cuts.
- Best Short Film at Festival di Cortometraggi-Sorsicorti.
- Special mentions at the STIFF Student International Film Festival and Promofest Short of the Year.
Her films have been screened at prestigious festivals such as the Stuttgart ITFS Trickfilm Animation Festival, Krok Festival, and the Manchester Animation Festival, among others.
Notable Works
- Pisces (2023): A poignant animated short currently in distribution. Produced by The Hive Studio and funded by multiple organizations, including the Jerusalem Film Fund, Pais Fund Israel, and Makor Fund. Distributed by Pentacle Productions.
- It Was Only A Hand (2020): A poetic animated short, part of a collaboration with the "Incubator" fringe theater.
- Free Imagination (2017): Created as part of the project A Face. The Day. A Memory by Beit Avi Chai Institute.
- Mirrors (2015): Co-directed with Yali Herbet, funded by the NFCT Fund Israel.
Additional Projects
Dror's creative contributions extend beyond short films to include music videos, educational content, and artistic collaborations:
- Summer Memories (2022–2023): Worked as a layout and background painter, location designer, and colorist for this animated series produced by A&N Productions Ltd. in partnership with Aircraft Pictures, Yeti Farm Creative, and The Hive Studio.
- Little Pirates – For Good (2020): Directed and art-directed an animated music video for the indie folk band "Little Pirates."
- Rachel Bluwstein Tribute (2019): Designed and animated a series of shorts honoring the Israeli poetess Rachel Bluwstein, produced by Tami Berenstein Studio.
- Days of the Week (2018): Directed and animated an educational video for BabyFirst TV.
Style and Themes
Dror’s artistic work is characterized by its emotional depth and exploration of universal themes. She combines traditional animation techniques with innovative storytelling, creating pieces that resonate with diverse audiences. Her visual style often reflects a delicate interplay between softness and intensity, underlining the complex narratives she portrays.
Recognition and Influence
Lee Dror’s films have positioned her as a rising talent in the animation industry. Her ability to tackle complex subjects while maintaining visual beauty has garnered her a growing reputation on the global stage. With a portfolio that bridges personal expression and universal appeal, she continues to influence the fields of animation and visual storytelling.