International Animation Festival
21—27 September 2026
Syros Island, Cyclades, Greece
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Animaspyros

AnimaSpyros is the official mascot of the ANIMASYROS International Animation Festival, representing the festival’s spirit, identity, and creative energy in a playful and memorable form. Since the festival’s first edition in 2008, AnimaSpyros has appeared across official communications, posters, merchandise, and digital content as a symbolic character that embodies both the festival’s connection to Syros and its celebration of animation arts.

The Festival’s Mascot

AnimaSpyros was created in 2008 by visual artist and illustrator Petros Christoulias, drawing inspiration from the minimalistic shapes of Cycladic art—specifically the ancient Cycladic figurines—and blending them with modern cartoon sensibilities. The figure’s triangular head, distinctive nose, and exaggerated glasses give it a friendly, whimsical personality that resonates with both children and animation enthusiasts alike.

The name “AnimaSpyros” cleverly fuses the word “animation” with the common Greek male name “Spyros,” creating an alliterative link to the festival’s host island, Syros. Over the years, the mascot has come to symbolize both the creative content of the festival and the welcoming, imaginative environment that surrounds the event.

The Mascot’s Designer: Petros Christoulias

Petros Christoulias is the artist behind the original design of AnimaSpyros. As a visual artist and illustrator, Christoulias conceived the character by focusing on iconic forms from both ancient Cycladic sculpture and contemporary visual culture, merging them into a figure that could feel timeless yet playful. His approach emphasizes simplicity with personality, allowing AnimaSpyros to act as a bridge between classical art heritage and modern animation culture.

Christoulias’s mascot design reflects the festival’s ethos: approachable, creative, and rooted in a specific place while open to global artistic exchange. The design has been adapted into various media formats—including 3D animations and sculptural versions—demonstrating the versatility and enduring appeal of his creation.