VES Honors 2026 to recognize Susan Zwerman and other industry leaders in September

The Visual Effects Society has named the honorees for its 2026 VES Honors Celebration, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the craft and technology of visual effects. The annual event will take place on September 4 at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, according to both British Cinematographer and Deadline.

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British CinematographerVisual Effects Society announces 2026 honourees for Annual Honors CelebrationDeadlineVisual Effects Society Announces 2026 VES Honors Recipients

Honorees were selected by the VES Board of Directors from member-submitted candidates, continuing a tradition of honoring those who have shaped the visual effects industry. The celebration brings together professionals from across the field to acknowledge outstanding achievements.

Among this year's recipients, Susan Zwerman will receive the VES Founders Award. Deadline reported that the award is given for her "sustained contributions to the art, science, and business of VFX and distinguished service to the society." The Founders Award is one of the highest honors the society bestows.

British Cinematographer noted that the honorees "join a legacy of their peers who have" been recognized by the society in previous years. The Visual Effects Society describes itself as the industry's global professional honorary society, underscoring the prestige of the recognition.

The VES Honors Celebration serves as a key moment each year for the visual effects community to celebrate the individuals who drive innovation in the field. With Zwerman's award highlighting years of service, the 2026 ceremony promises to honor both technical mastery and dedication to the craft.