Embrace Traditional Sketching Techniques, Japanese Animator Advises At SAC

At the recent Sharjah Animation Conference (SAC) held at Expo Centre Sharjah, master animator Junichi Hayama shared invaluable insights into the world of manga and anime art. With a career spanning over three decades, Hayama, known for his work on Phantom Blood and Sakigake! Otoku Juku, emphasized the importance of beginning with hand-drawn sketches rather than digital tools. According to him, traditional drawing techniques are crucial for developing a keen sense of proportion in budding artists.

During the "Drawing Masterpieces" workshop, Hayama captivated anime enthusiasts by sketching three beloved fictional characters: Kenshiro from Fist of the North Star, Yu Gi Oh, and Jotaro Kujo from JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. His approachable demeanor and expert guidance underscored his session, providing attendees with a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship behind some of anime's most iconic figures.

Hayama's journey in animation began without formal training, under the mentorship of Masami Suda. His initial aspiration was to become a manga artist, a dream redirected by challenges early in his career. He highlighted the significance of mastering anatomy and facial expressions in character design, sharing that he found drawing the large eyes characteristic of anime particularly challenging.

The artist also shared his preferred tools for creating suzume sketches: a brush pen, a special lead pencil, and a water brush for spreading colors. His advice to aspiring artists was heartfelt: "Draw with love," encouraging them to tackle challenging aspects head-on and to start by drawing what they know.

Hayama's illustrious career includes roles as a character designer and chief animation director for projects like JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure and as an animation director for One Piece Film: Red. He credits Masami Suda as his greatest inspiration and has contributed to works by prestigious studios such as Toei Animation and APPP.

The Sharjah Animation Conference, organized by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), has established itself as a leading platform for animation enthusiasts globally. It offers a unique opportunity for industry experts, emerging artists, and creatives to engage, share ideas, and forge significant connections. The SAC 2024 concluded its activities on May 5th, marking another successful edition of this pioneering event.

Junichi Hayama's participation at SAC not only provided attendees with practical advice on honing their artistry but also highlighted Sharjah's growing influence as a hub for cultural and creative exchanges in the field of animation. His session underscored the enduring value of traditional artistic skills in an increasingly digital age, inspiring a new generation of artists to explore their creativity with passion and dedication.

With inputs from WAM