The Leonardo Museum proudly presented the prestigious Leonardo Award to Dr. Edwin Catmull on Thursday, September 12, 2024. Dr. Catmull, a pioneer in computer graphics and co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios, was recognized for his remarkable contributions to technology, creativity, and innovation.
The event commenced with an introduction by Virginia Pearce, Director of the Utah Film Commission, who highlighted Dr. Catmull’s profound impact on the film industry and technological advancement. The award was then presented by Ambassador John Price, a respected community leader, in honor of Dr. Catmull’s lifetime achievements.
Dr. Catmull engaged in an insightful public question and answer session with Dr. Chris Johnson, Founding Director of the Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute at the University of Utah and former Leonardo Award recipient. The engaging discussion covered Dr. Catmull’s journey, his work at Pixar, and his pioneering research in computer graphics. Dr. Johnson, also an alumnus of the University of Utah, where Dr. Catmull earned his PhD, facilitated a lively exchange that captivated the audience.
Echoing the mission of The Leonardo, Dr. Catmull said, “curiosity is important because life is curious. The more we question the world around us, the better off we are—just like it’s expanding our mind in a variety of ways.”
The Leonardo Award is presented annually to curious individuals whose contributions reflect the intersection of art, science, and technology, embodying the visionary spirit of Leonardo da Vinci. Dr. Catmull’s work continues to inspire future generations in these fields. This event is generously sponsored by Domo, the University of Utah, and The Beesley Family Foundation.
