My Top 3 Animation Inspirations
Japanese anime has had the greatest impact on my life of any artform. My artistic practice originated in the desire to engage with and contribute to the cultural conversation being had in this medium. Anime, for me, is not merely entertainment, but a vessel to explore and express our humanity. It can be a transcendental experience. So come with me while I explore and appreciate the artistry and storytelling that goes into each frame of this great artform. From mesmerizing YouTube shorts to genre-defining classics, the world of Japanese animation has touched my heart in unique ways, and I hope it will for you too.
Puparia: Rediscovering Beauty Through Traditional Techniques
Imagine spending one year to produce 1 minute of animation -- now imagine doing it 3 times! That's what Shingo Tamagawa did with Puparia. A remarkable YouTube creation that defies the contemporary anime scene by using traditional techniques with colored pencil on paper. Through its handcrafted visuals, the creator captures the ineffable and invites viewers into a world of ethereal beauty. The dedication and attention to detail shine through in every frame, reminding us of the magic that can be created with simple yet profound artistic methods.
Watch it here!
Dragon Ball: The Epitome of Joy and Creative Brilliance
When we talk about the shonen genre, one name immediately comes to
mind: Dragon Ball. The original Dragon Ball series, the genesis of this iconic franchise, remains unparalleled in its ability to evoke joy and ignite our imagination. Every frame bursts with charm and creativity, delivering a delightful blend of humor, adventure, and character development. What sets Dragon Ball apart is its masterful balance between lighthearted goofiness and a deeper, more engaging narrative, particularly in the legendary King Piccolo arc. The series stands as a timeless classic that continues to shape and influence the anime landscape to this day.
Evangelion: Exploring the Depths of the Human Experience
In stark contrast to the joyous experience of Dragon Ball, Evangelion takes us on a profound journey through the depths of the human emotion. Created by auteur director Hideaki Anno, this anime challenges the notion that cartoons are solely for children. It fearlessly explores heavy themes such as depression, sexual frustration, familial trauma, and the search for meaning. The juxtaposition of bombastic fighting robot sequences with introspective character studies makes Evangelion a truly exceptional work. While the original series ending garners mixed reactions, I stand by its power to leave viewers with a breathtaking, heart-sinking, and life-affirming experience. It is a series that demands multiple viewings, each unveiling new layers of introspection and appreciation.
Animation has the incredible power to captivate, inspire, and provoke thought. It was incredibly difficult to decide on just three animations, but In my personal journey these three have each lingered in my mind the most. Puparia's dedication to traditional techniques challenges contemporary norms, Dragon Ball's original series captures the essence of joy and creativity, and Evangelion delves into the heaviest aspects of the human experience. This joyous, rebellious, and sincere attitude is what I try to bring into my work, and I hope to one day create something worthy enough to be among these masterpieces. Now if you'll excuse me -- I need to go rewatch all of these now!
