Japanese animation, for the better part of two decades, has become a prominent feature in western society thanks especially to the works of Studio Ghibli, and in particular Hayao Miyazaki. Following Toshio Suzuki’s announcement of Studio Ghibli’s hiatus from film production on August 3rd the status of Japanese animation has been questioned by critics. However, while the powerhouse of Japanese animation may be gone temporarily, it does not mean that there aren’t other equally brilliant animators in Japan.
To show that this is the case, I shall be publishing a series of aritcles on various animators and animation companies in Japan, as well as conducting interviews with industry professionals. This spotlight series will help bring to light the many incredibly talented people of the animation industry that may have been overlooked to prove that the Japanese animation industry will continue to thrive without Studio Ghibli. I hope that you will all enjoy it!
Roxy Simons.
List of animators and animation companies:
Makoto Shinkai
Mamoru Hosoda
Satoshi Kon
Creative Intelligence Arts
Other artists TBA
VIEW OF THE ARTS 