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In Ireland’s scenic West, Studio Meala shines as an award-winning animation studio based in Boyle County Roscommon. Since 2019, they’ve been creating original hand-drawn 2D animations, earning global recognition.

Operating from The Spool Factory hub, Studio Meala uses a mix of local and remote talent for each project, ensuring flexibility and creativity. Stephen Fagan, a Dublin native with more than 20 years of experience, leads the team of 10 full-time employees. Stephen and his co-founders, Sean Cunningham and Jerry Twomey, saw the potential of starting a new animation studio in the West of Ireland, where they could tap into the creative talent pool and first-class facilities to expand their offering.

With support from the Western Investment Fund, Studio Meala is expanding, focusing on developing its own projects. Their new venture, “Doodle Girl” will be a lively Pre-School Series for 4-7s, based on the popular books by Suzanne Smith and Lindsay Taylor, with captivating illustrations by Marnie Maurie.

Allan Mulrooney, Interim CEO of WDC said

Supported by our Investment fund and based in The Spool Factory, a member of our ConnectedHubs project, Studio Meala encapsulates key elements of the WDC's work.
Operating locally from Boyle while thinking globally, Stephen and his team exemplifies the perfect synergy between leveraging local creative talent and embracing remote collaboration. They are a testament to the immense potential of the West of Ireland as a hub for creativity and innovation and we look forward to working alongside them as they continue to grow from their base in Boyle.

Stephen Fagan, CEO of Studio Meala, Brian Nerney and Geraldine Mc Loughlin, WDC speaking with Minister Heather Humphreys at the Spool Factory in Boyle, Co. Roscommon
Stephen Fagan, CEO of Studio Meala, Brian Nerney and Geraldine Mc Loughlin, WDC speaking with Minister Heather Humphreys at the Spool Factory in Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Stephen Fagan, CEO of Studio Meala said The Spool Factory in Boyle was the ideal location for Studio Meala to start. We had support from the regional stakeholders in the West from day one and also from the people of Boyle. Having a facility like the Spool Factory available to us as we grew allowed us to scale strategically and work towards building our creative enterprise in the West, ultimately benefiting the region on the whole.”

The rural setting of The Spool Factory provides Studio Meala with the necessary facilities and high-speed broadband to operate and grow its business. This unique environment fosters a strong sense of community and nurtures their creative endeavours.

Studio Meala’s success exemplifies the potential for growth and innovation in the West of Ireland, making it a shining example for regional enterprises. The animation company has recently scaled its production team for the ‘Doodle Girl’ Series.

For more information on the Western Investment Fund see here

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