It’s awards season in Hollywood, and we’re proud to see RISD alumni on the lists of nominees for their creative work in the film industry. Tune in to the Academy Awards ceremony on February 22 to root for Gus Van Sant ‘75 FAV and Danny Glicker ‘95 ID, nominated in the directing and costume design categories, respectively, for their work on Milk. This is Van Sant’s second nomination - his first was in 1997 for Good Will Hunting. Milk is also in the running for the coveted best picture award.

Their names don’t appear officially on the nominee list, but Jeremy Lasky ‘97 FAV and Angus MacLane ‘97 FAV, (director of photography and animating director, respectively) had a lot to do with the amazing visuals in WALL-E - and its nomination for top animated feature film. It’s already scooped up the Golden Globe in the same category (and will most likely have Lasky’s vote for the Oscar: he was recently invited to be a member of the Academy, based on his work at Pixar on blockbusters including Finding Nemo, Cars and Monsters, Inc.).

Keep your eyes peeled, too, for more local, though not RISD-affiliated, talent: Viola Davis, nominated for the best supporting actress Oscar for her role in Doubt, is a native of Central Falls, RI, graduated from Rhode Island College and acted with Providence’s Trinity Repertory Company; and Richard Jenkins, up for best lead actor for his work in The Visitor, is another Trinity veteran, with 15 years as an actor, director and artistic director under his belt.

Congratulations and good luck to all of RISD’s and Rhode Island’s nominees!