Singer and composer Andrew Choi made a recent appearance at the Amazing Art Expo in Long Beach, where he met with fans and reflected on his role as the singing voice of Jinu in the Oscar-winning animated film KPop Demon Hunters.
Known for his work across the music industry, Choi’s contribution to KPop Demon Hunters showcases a distinct blend of performance styles, merging K-pop-inspired vocals with character-driven storytelling. During the event, Choi spoke with The Kitsune Network about his approach to shaping Jinu’s musical identity and bringing the character’s performances to life.
Connecting with Fans at Amazing Art Expo
Choi’s appearance at the Amazing Art Expo offered attendees the opportunity to meet him during autograph sessions and live interactions. The event, known for featuring artists, pop culture figures, and live showcases, provided an ideal setting to spotlight a project rooted in both visual and musical creativity.
Throughout the day, Choi engaged with fans, discussing his work and sharing behind-the-scenes insights into KPop Demon Hunters, which continues to resonate with audiences nearly a year after its release.
Interview with Andrew Choi
We sat down with Andrew Choi for a brief but insightful conversation about his experience working on KPop Demon Hunters, including his approach to Jinu’s vocals and the lasting impact of the film.
Looking Ahead
Nearly a year after its release, KPop Demon Hunters continues to maintain a strong cultural presence, bolstered by its two Oscar wins and a widely publicized collaboration with McDonald’s. At the center of its musical identity, Andrew Choi’s performance as Jinu remains a standout, helping define the film’s unique sound. By blending idol culture with action-driven storytelling, the project has continued to resonate with both anime audiences and K-pop fans, extending its impact well beyond its initial debut.
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Japanese illustrator Acky Bright has become one of the most exciting names in global pop culture, fusing his signature kawakakkoii (cute × cool) aesthetic into projects that bridge anime, gaming, music, and fashion.
Over the past two years, Bright’s work has exploded onto the international stage. In 2024, he spearheaded McDonald’s worldwide “WcDonald’s” campaign, designing manga-style packaging, original characters, and a digital manga series that brought anime culture into fast-food history. He also teamed up with chart-topping band ASTERISM on the Planet of Metal concept album, creating a 28-page artbook that expanded their musical world into visual storytelling. Fans of gaming saw his touch in the Monster Hunter Now × Ayase collaboration, where Bright’s illustrations powered an energetic crossover of music and monster hunting.
Characters Designed by Acky Bright (Left to Right): Mia, Carm, J, Flurry, Mr.Bev, Wicke, Burg, Midnight, Quart Sr, and the WcDizer 3000.
Planet of Metal concept by Acky Bright
On the fine art side, Bright’s “Studio Infinity” solo exhibition at Japan Society in New York blurred the line between gallery and studio. Visitors watched him live-draw massive murals and even join in on the process, highlighting his love for interactive creation.
At Anime Expo 2025, Bright delivered one of the convention’s most talked-about panels, mixing live art games like “Guess the Sketch” and the “3 Deck Challenge” with big announcements. He teased a major cross-industry project set for October 2025, showcased a prototype of his upcoming Underverse collectible figure, and reaffirmed his lifelong dedication to designing original characters.
Acky Bright’s journey demonstrates not only his versatility but also his commitment to making art that’s playful, edgy, and deeply personal.
Exclusive Interview with Acky Bright
We at The Kitsune Network had the honor of speaking with Acky Bright to discuss his recent projects, his artistic philosophy, and what fans can expect next,
Krystal:
You’ve worked with McDonald’s on some high-profile anime-inspired projects – from the global “WcDonald’s” campaign (complete with manga-style ads and even an immersive LA restaurant experience) to a viral McDonald’s Japan music video promotion featuring popular artists like Ado, YOASOBI, and Hoshimachi Suisei. How did you approach blending your manga-style art with such an iconic fast-food brand, and what was most challenging or rewarding about bringing these campaigns to life?
WcDonald’s iconic Manga paper bag, designed by Acky Birght.
Acky:
Regarding WcDonald’s, I found it incredibly cool that the actual McDonald’s launched a global campaign using the “WcDonald’s” parody—a concept long familiar in anime and manga. I was truly honored and excited to be selected as the campaign’s main designer. I also had a great degree of creative freedom, which made the entire experience genuinely enjoyable from beginning to end. Given my understanding of Western culture, I think I was able to deliver work that left both the client and fans highly satisfied. In Japan, McDonald’s campaigns are major cultural moments each year, and this one was led by a creative team composed of some of the country’s top talents, so it was a fantastic project to be a part of. I was also given considerable freedom in designing the characters, which made the process all the more enjoyable. One additional point: each popular artist has their own loyal fanbase. So when creating the designs, I considered not only the artist themselves, but also how to make their fans happy through the visuals.
Krystal:
At Anime Expo 2025, you surprised fans with a sneak peek of an upcoming figure based on one of your original designs. This is part of your partnership with collectible company Underverse to create high-end figures. How does it feel to see one of your illustrations come to life as a detailed 3D figure, and what can you tell us about the design or story behind this character? Are there more figures or plans in the works through this collaboration?
Acky:
As for the UNDER VERSE project, while I can’t go into too much detail as this was shown as a bit of fan service, I’m absolutely thrilled that a figure of mine is being produced as part of the “SEVEN STARS” series. The official setting is as follows: when the silicon-based civilization tore through the constraints of the “Three Laws of AI,” a torrent of machines was unleashed within the quantum matrix, issuing a final judgment upon human civilization and bringing it under machine rule. In response, humanity leveraged the “GAME” system—featuring rogue AI warriors that still retained remnants of the Three Laws—to ignite rebellion through a bounty-based mechanism. The first figure in the series is MONICA, once a member of the “Number 7s.” Originally created by AI as the perfect warrior to carry out humanity’s extinction, she now fights back—having lost those memories. The plan is to release more figures of these “Number 7s” warriors, and I hope the project will eventually evolve into something like an anime.
Krystal:
Your solo exhibition “Studio Infinity” at Japan Society in New York essentially turned the gallery into your personal studio – you were live-drawing on site, letting visitors watch and even participate as you created manga-style murals in real time. What was that experience like for you, performing your art live in a museum setting? Did interacting with visitors on the spot influence the pieces you created?
Acky:
This was my first solo exhibition in the U.S., and it was held at a gallery with more than a century of history—one that has hosted only world-renowned artists. It was truly an unforgettable experience for me. Some people came back to visit every week, and I was able to form real friendships with them. I imagine it’s unlikely that another artist will exhibit something similar at Japan Society in the future, which makes me feel incredibly grateful. I look back on this time with nothing but happiness.
Krystal:
Any plans on bringing “Studio Infinity” to Los Angeles?
Acky:
If the opportunity arises, I’d definitely love to do it again. There are many great galleries in Los Angeles, so I hope to make it happen someday.
Krystal:
Your art style is often described as kawakakkoii – a blend of “cute” and “cool” aesthetics. When designing characters, how do you decide what elements should be charming or adorable versus which should be edgy or “cool” to achieve that mix?
Acky:
I’m not the type of artist who draws based on theory, so I can’t say for sure how my style developed. However, the phrase “kawa-kakkoii” (“cute and cool”) has become somewhat of a signature descriptor for me. It actually originated from manga artist Yusuke Murata (of Eyeshield 21 and One-Punch Man fame), who once posted on social media that he had purchased my art book and used that term to describe my work. I’ve proudly adopted it ever since.
Krystal:
You’ve mentioned that you have a lifelong passion for creating your own original characters rather than working on pre-existing IPs. How has focusing on original designs (instead of fan art or existing IP) helped shape your career and identity as an artist?
Acky:
When I was in middle school and first dreamed of becoming a professional artist—with no real basis for that dream—I told myself: “You can’t become a true artist by copying others.” Of course, as we live, we naturally absorb influences from everywhere, and as professionals, it’s important to understand trends. But even within that, I try to maintain originality and focus on expressing what makes my work me.
Krystal:
What elements in daily life inspire you to create your own original characters?
Acky:
My inspiration comes from everything I see. In that sense, traveling the world and experiencing different cultures is an incredible source of creative fuel. I also make a conscious effort to absorb input—whether it’s watching all kinds of videos or listening to music—especially because when work gets busy, output tends to take over.
Krystal:
You’ve achieved so many collaborations across music, gaming, and even fashion – Looking to the future, is there a dream project or medium you haven’t tackled yet that you’d love to try next? Overall, what new goals or aspirations are you excited to pursue as you continue to evolve your artistic journey?
Acky:
My next goal is to build a studio in the U.S., where I can take on even larger projects as a producer, working with other artists from around the world. I want to go beyond just anime and games—live-action, too. My ultimate dream is to recreate the energy and excitement of 1990s shonen manga magazines, but on a global scale. I already have a concrete idea that might make it possible, so this may very well be my “dream project.”
Krystal:
As an artist who has overcome your own artistic challenges, What advice or messages would you have for those who want to pursue an artistic career?
Acky:
That’s why I want to encourage people to free themselves from comparing their work to others or measuring their value by the number of likes on social media. If you keep going, you’ll come to understand: once you choose the path of art, “creating” becomes a lifelong journey. So don’t get caught up in momentary praise, fleeting trends, or surface-level recognition. They don’t matter in the long run.
Acky Bright’s career is a testament to how art can transcend borders, industries, and mediums without losing its soul. From redefining global branding campaigns to reimagining gallery spaces a interactive canvas, he continues to push the boundaries of what manga-inspired art can achieve. As Bright himself reminds us, true artistry isn’t about likes or fleeting trends, but about the lifelong journey of creation. With October’s mysterious new project on the horizon, fans around the globe have every reason to stay excited: Acky Bright is just getting started.
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TOKYOPOP and Kinokuniya USA have announced a special summer art exhibition to celebrate the ongoing success of Lullaby of the Dawn, the acclaimed BL fantasy manga by creator Ichika Yuno. Titled Scenes from Lullaby of the Dawn: Celebrating 1.7 Million Copies Sold, the activation will take place at eight Kinokuniya store locations across five U.S. states from July through August 2025.
The limited-run in-store exhibits will showcase official artwork from the series and offer fans a chance to purchase manga volumes and exclusive licensed merchandise, including art prints, postcards, and sticker sets. Each exhibit will run for 10 days, with select dates aligning with major anime conventions such as Anime Expo, Anime Matsuri, and Anime NYC.
Exhibit Schedule and Locations
July 3–13: Kinokuniya Katy (TX) – during Anime Matsuri
July 3–13: Kinokuniya Los Angeles (CA) – during Anime Expo
July 18–27: Kinokuniya Austin (TX) and Kinokuniya Santa Anita (CA)
August 1–10: Kinokuniya Atlanta (GA) and Kinokuniya San Francisco (CA)
August 21–31: Kinokuniya New York (NY) – during Anime NYC
August 21–31: Kinokuniya Seattle (WA)
The exhibit celebrates the growing global fanbase of Lullaby of the Dawn, which won first place in the 2022 Chill Chill BL Awards’ Best Comic category. The story follows Elva, a kannagi warrior priest corrupted by the power of the black sea, and Alto, a devoted young villager who vows to serve him and help free him from his curse. Set in a rich fantasy world, the series explores themes of fate, loneliness, devotion, and healing.
“We’re very proud to partner with Kinokuniya USA to present this special exhibit for manga fans,” said Owais Farooqui, Director of Marketing and Sales at TOKYOPOP. “Several dates also coincide with some of North America’s biggest summer anime conventions, and we invite fans to add it as a must-see highlight on their con schedules.”
Kinokuniya also emphasized the collaboration’s significance, with East Coast Regional Manager Shigekazu Watanabe stating, “We are excited to present Scenes from Lullaby of the Dawn with TOKYOPOP and mark an important sales milestone for the series.”
The English edition of Lullaby of the Dawn is published under TOKYOPOP’s LoveLove imprint. The original Japanese edition is released by ShuCream, Inc. Explore the titles here.
About Lullaby of the Dawn
Elva, an immortal shaman with snow-white hair and cursed blackened limbs, battles nightmarish sea creatures to protect his island. Feared and isolated, his world changes when he meets Alto, a brave and loyal boy who pledges to serve him. As the years pass, Alto matures into a skilled warrior whose presence begins to undo the corruption within Elva’s body—and perhaps his heart.
Frontier Works Inc. has announced an exclusive collaboration that merges the world of virtual pop idol Hatsune Miku and the Tokyo National Museum’s cultural preservation efforts. Titled the “Hatsune Miku × Tokyo National Museum Cultural Property Conservation Program,” this unique initiative brings limited-edition merchandise to North America and will be showcased at Anime Expo 2025 in Los Angeles.
Running from July 3 to July 6 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Anime Expo attendees can experience the exhibit at the animate GROUP booth (South Hall, SH-504), where Frontier Works will display the collaborative collection. Exclusive ticket-style cards will be distributed only at the venue, and merchandise will be available for purchase on-site. Sample items from the made-to-order collection will also be on display.
This collaboration features Hatsune Miku, Kagamine Rin, and Kagamine Len reimagined through the lens of iconic Japanese cultural artifacts. Among the most anticipated items are those inspired by the Important Cultural Property “Robe (Kosode) with Autumn Flowers,” affectionately nicknamed “Fuyuki Kosode.” This includes “Fuyuki Kosode Miku,” developed as part of the Korin Kimono Restoration Project.
Other featured characters include “Beauty Looking Back Miku,” and new renditions such as “Haniwa: Warrior in ‘Keikō’ Armor Miku” and “Haniwa: Dancing People Rin & Len,” created for the “Dancing Haniwa & Beauty Looking Back Conservation Project.”
The collaborative goods will be available for pre-order beginning June 16, 2025 (PDT), exclusively through the animate USA Online Shop. The pre-order period will run until July 20, 2025. A portion of all sales will be donated to the Tokyo National Museum to support the conservation of cultural properties.
This project is a joint initiative between Crypton Future Media, the Tokyo National Museum, and the National Center for the Promotion of Cultural Properties.
Merchandise Highlights Include:
Fuyuki Kosode Miku Tenugui, Poster, Postcard, and Big Acrylic Stand
Beauty Looking Back Miku Tote Bag, Mouse Pad, Clear File, Acrylic Keychains, and Can Badges
Haniwa Series Acrylic Stands, Postcards, Stickers, and Mascot-themed Goods
Frontier Works Inc., in collaboration with internationally acclaimed illustrator Maniani, will bring the original brand Maniani World to Anime Expo 2025 this July in Los Angeles. Known for its distinctive blend of eerie and adorable aesthetics—described by the artist as “Kowai (scary) + Kawaii (cute) = Kowaii (scarily cute)”—Maniani World continues to capture the imaginations of fans worldwide.
From July 3 to July 6, attendees can visit the Maniani World booth (SH-4908) in the South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center. The booth will debut a variety of new merchandise, including Shadow Cat acrylic stands, keychains, T-shirts, and a new illustration book. An exclusive talk event hosted by Frontier Works’ creative director Yuka Mochizuki will also provide fans with insight into the visual storytelling and unique design philosophy behind Maniani’s monster creations.
In addition, a limited-edition Maniani World skateboard deck will be made available as a made-to-order product, exclusively through Animate International’s e-commerce platform. The deck will be on display at the booth, giving attendees a firsthand look before placing their orders online.
Skateboard Deck Pre-Order Details Pre-order period: June 6, 2025 at 3:00 AM PDT – July 28, 2025 at 7:59 AM PDT Product page: Animate Shop – Maniani World Deck *Note: Not available for purchase in Australia, New Zealand, or Japan.
Merchandise Lineup
Shadow Cat Acrylic Stand (5 types)
Shadow Cat Hologram Can Badge (5 types)
Shadow Cat Acrylic Keychain (3 types)
Shadow Cat T-shirt
Maniani World Illustration Book
Additional exclusive items
Talk Event: “The Visual Expressions Hidden in the Characters of Maniani World”
Date: July 3, 2025
Time: 5:15 PM – 6:05 PM
Location: Room 402AB Presented by Frontier Works, this panel will feature creative director Yuka Mochizuki as she discusses the development and design behind Maniani’s monsters and the growing appeal of their “kowaii” world.
Creative Director Yuka Mochizuki
Special Collaboration with Animate GROUP
A limited number of exclusive Maniani World ticket-style cards will be distributed at the Frontier Works exhibition space inside the Animate GROUP booth (SH-504). Visitors can bring the card to the Maniani World booth (SH-4908) to receive a commemorative giveaway item. Distribution will be limited each day on a first-come, first-served basis.
About Maniani
With a social media following exceeding 150,000 on X alone, Maniani has built a devoted fanbase through their signature “kowaii” monsters. Their work spans from original illustrations to game characters and book designs. Their art invites viewers into a world where creepy and cute collide in striking harmony.
A stunning fusion of cyberpunk culture and centuries-old Japanese craftsmanship is on the horizon. Japanese creative label U/M/A/A Inc. has announced the 2026 release of “TechnoByobu: TB-02 – The Ghost in the Shell,” a visually striking art piece that reimagines Masamune Shirow’s legendary Ghost in the Shell in the form of a traditional byōbu, or folding screen.
Rooted in the Greek word téchnē, TechnoByobu represents a convergence of art, technique, and technology. U/M/A/A’s concept brings together futuristic visual art, traditional Japanese craftsmanship (byōbu), and modern certification via digital technology. Each piece exists as both a collectible art object and a philosophical statement about the evolution of craft.
TechnoByobu x Ghost in the Shell
This marks the second installment in the TechnoByobu series, which fuses electronic aesthetics with traditional artistry using golden brass leaf—a foil technique refined over 500 years of Japanese craftsmanship. The announcement follows the success of the first TechnoByobu piece, “Electronic Fan Girl,” based on the iconic Yellow Magic Orchestra (YMO) album cover.
“TB-02” will feature Major Motoko Kusanagi and the Fuchikoma mecha unit from Shirow’s original 1991 manga, recreated in vibrant color on a brass-leaf folding screen. Blending cyberpunk visuals with traditional materials, the piece is crafted using a specialized multi-layered pigment transfer technique (Kasane Graphica) and archival pigment printing.
Technique: Kasane Graphica Multi-Layered Pigment Transfer Technique
The artwork will be a limited-edition release, complete with a serial number and digital certificate. Fans can register early interest via technobyobu.jp.
First Look At Design Shanghai 2025
The prototype for “TB-02” will make its global debut at Design Shanghai 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious design exhibitions. From June 4–7, visitors at the “Beyond Craft Japan” showcase (3F81, Hall 3) will be the first to experience the blend of cybernetic philosophy and traditional form in person.
Stay tuned to The Kitsune Network for more updates on this one-of-a-kind collaboration between anime heritage and high art.
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COVER Corporation recently brought the vibrant world of hololive English to Los Angeles with a special pop-up store at the Beverly Center, which operated from February 5th through February 27th, 2025. This first ever, U.S. hololive shop offered fans exclusive merchandise and served as a prelude to Mori Calliope’s “Grimoire” concert at the Hollywood Palladium on February 26th.
The pop-up store featured a variety of themed merchandise, including Valentine’s Day items showcasing talents like Takanashi Kiara, Ouro Kronii, Nerissa Ravencroft, and Elizabeth Rose Bloodflame. Fans had the opportunity to purchase keychains, acrylic standees, apparel, and Mori Calliope-specific concert memorabilia such as towels, CDs, Blu-rays of previous performances, and exclusive glow sticks designed for the “Grimoire” concert.
In a generous move, COVER Corporation announced that proceeds from the pop-up store, along with a $30,000 USD donation, would support wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles, allowing fans to contribute to a meaningful cause while celebrating their favorite VTubers.
The “Grimoire” concert, held on February 26th at the Hollywood Palladium, marked a significant milestone as Mori Calliope’s first solo performance outside Japan. The event showcased her musical evolution and creative vision, with fans worldwide tuning in via live streams on SPWN and Streaming+. The concert was met with enthusiasm, as evidenced by hololive production’s Instagram post expressing amazement at the event’s conclusion. For those who couldn’t attend the pop-up store or the concert, select merchandise remains available online through the hololive production official shop until March 24th, 2025.
MORI CALLIOPE INTERVIEW
Adding to the excitement, we had the unique opportunity to interview Mori Calliope, at the pop up shop the day following her concert.
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JapanLA Reopens Flagship Store for Daily In-Person Shopping
Earlier this month, JapanLA, the beloved boutique renowned for its collection of Japanese Kawaii brands like Hello Kitty, had its grand reopening of its flagship store on La Brea Avenue. The store is now open daily for in-person shopping, bringing back the vibrant and immersive retail experience that fans have dearly missed.
Founded in 2006 by Jamie Rivadeneira, JapanLA has long been a cornerstone of the Kawaii community in Los Angeles. The store has not only offered a unique selection of adorable merchandise but also hosted numerous pop-up shops, curated events, art shows, and fashion shows. It has even produced licensed Sanrio products, creating a magical space for fans of all ages.
In 2020, JapanLA closed its physical doors due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, the store quickly adapted by pivoting to a digital business model, introducing livestream shopping shows that allowed customers to engage and shop together from the safety of their homes. This innovative approach kept the community spirit alive and thriving, even during the most challenging times of quarantine.
Despite the success of their digital model, JapanLA knew that nothing could replace the joy of in-store shopping. In June 2022, they began to reopen on weekends for in-person shopping and hosted monthly mascot events. Their popular live streams expanded to TikTok Shop, earning them a spot among the top 10 shows on the platform.
Responding to the growing demand for real-life shopping experiences and their viral popularity on TikTok, JapanLA has decided to open its doors every day of the week. This exciting development means that fans can now visit the store whenever they wish, enjoying the whole JapanLA experience once again.
JapanLA remains a vibrant gathering place where fans can celebrate their favorite characters, make new friends, and create lasting memories with their loved ones. The JapanLA team expresses immense gratitude for the unwavering support of their loyal customers and the wider community.
Come and visit JapanLA at: 233 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Mon – Fri: 11am – 5pm
Sat: 11am – 7pm
Sun: 11am – 6pm
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the Kawaii world, JapanLA looks forward to welcoming you back to their magical store. Stay tuned for upcoming event coverage from events hosted by JapanLA.
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Monkey D. Luffy’s larger-than-life balloon made its frist public appearance in full at this year’s Balloonfest. The balloon will take center stage in the highly celebrated 97th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This exciting event puts Monkey D.Luffy in the esteemed company of iconic characters such as Pikachu and Goku, who have previously showcased as giant balloons floating above the streets of New York City.
With its impressive dimensions of 43-feet in length (or 6 bicycles), 39-feet in width (or 6 taxi cabs), and 50-feet in height (or 5 story building), featuring over 20 different painted colors. Monkey D. Luffy will undoubtedly capture everyone’s attention as he embarks on his first-ever flight from Central Park West to Herald Square, where Macy’s iconic flagship store is located. Accompanied by his dedicated pirate crew, who have been appointed as honorary Straw Hats for a day. Luffy’s journey will be met with enthusiastic cheers from the countless of One Piece fans along the Parade route, as well as the millions of viewers watching from the comfort of their homes.
“We’re thrilled to have the celebrated anime franchise One Piece join the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with our Monkey D. Luffy giant character balloon,” said Masayuki Endo, President and CEO of Toei Animation Inc. “Over the past 24 years, One Piece has built a huge global audience and today, the franchise is now more popular than ever before — both in the U.S. and around the world. We’re excited to introduce One Piece to the tens of millions of people that watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade every year – especially the friends and families of current One Piece fans!”
“Our balloon lineup includes some of the most iconic characters from around the world and spans all genres of entertainment, including anime, which continues to captivate our audience. We’re excited to welcome such a beloved fan-favorite to the Parade this year,” said Jordan Dabby, producer of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “For decades, Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates have delighted fans of all ages, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to see him sail the skies of New York City this Thanksgiving.”
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has always been a cherished tradition for millions of spectators, who eagerly line the streets to catch a glimpse of their favorite characters brought to life in the form of massive balloons. Luffy’s inclusion in the lineup is a testament to the series massive fan base and the enduring popularity of the One Piece franchise.
The One Piece anime is produced by Toei Animation and based on the top-selling manga by Eiichiro Oda, One Piece is a popular TV series. It first debuted in Japan in October 1999 and follows Monkey D. Luffy and his Straw Hat crew in their quest to find the legendary treasure called “One Piece.” Over the past 24 years, the franchise has expanded to include 15 movies, home videos, video games, and a wide range of merchandise like accessories, toys, and apparel. One Piece will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2024, we can’t wait to see what Toei Animation has in store.
The 97th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will be broadcast nationwide in the U.S. on NBC and can be streamed on Peacock. It will take place on Thursday, November 23, 2023, from 9 a.m. to noon in all time zones. Visit macys.com/parade for more information. Join the excitement by following @macys on social platforms and using the hashtag #MacysParade. Follow Toei Animation on social media using #ThanksLuffy for the latest news and updates leading up to Parade day.
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Throughout its history, the beloved Pokemon media franchise has been involved in numerous collaborations, spanning an array of industries and captivating fans across the globe. From vibrant Pokemon-themed cafes and exclusive high-end apparel collections to food collaborations, the reach of Pokemon knows no bounds. Beyond merchandise, the franchise has even ventured into the realm of video game consoles, creating special edition Pokemon-themed devices that truly immerse fans in the world they love.
With each new collaboration, the Pokemon franchise continues to amaze and inspire, inviting fans of all ages to dive deeper into its rich lore and captivating new Pokemon. Continuing to expand their artistic horizons, The Pokemon Company has joined forces with renowned artists from Japan with diverse backgrounds in the art of Kogei (Crafts), to answer the following question, ‘‘What would happen when Pokémon meets kogei (Japanese craft)?’
Work by artist KASUMI UEBA | Pottery, Hand Building overgalse enamels
Kogei, pronounced as ko-gay, is a term used in Japan to refer to the exquisite art of artisan crafts, it represents the dedication and mastery of traditional craft traditions in specific regions. Over the course of many centuries, Kogei has played a crucial role in enhancing japan’s daily lives, combining both utilitarian and aesthetic values. As time has passed, Kogei has, like Pokemon, evolved into a distinct art form using traditional methods, showcasing Japan’s exceptional diversity and artistic prowess. The profound reverence for materials, impeccable craftsmanship, and unwavering dedication are evident in numerous creations.
Under the careful curation of the National Crafts Museum in Kanazawa, Japan, and with full support of The Pokémon Company, artists crafted 70 artwork pieces using an array of materials and age-old techniques by twenty of Japan’s most skilled artisans.
Art by TAIICHIRO YOSHIDA | Metal Work
POKEMON X Kogei debuted at National Crafts Museum earlier this year, and now its available in Los Angeles for all to see! The exhibition combines the elemental relationship between Pokemon and the materials used in Kogei. Similar to the various types of Pokémon such as Grass, Fire, Water, Ground (Earth), Steel (or Metal), and Electric, Koegi also incorporates these same elements with electricity added as craft has evolved in the modern times.
Art by TERUMASA IKEDA
In homage to the mechanics of Pokemon, the exhibition is also divided into three sections; Appearance, Life and Stories, that showcase the artists’ “battle” between their craft and the Pokemon.
In the Appearance category, the artists took on the captivating task of portraying the various forms intricate details of skin or fur, lively gestures, and vivid expressions of the Pokémon.
Art by TAIICHIRO YOSHIDA
In the Lifecategory, artists use Pokémon into crafts used in contemporary life. These pieces often have a type of use in life.
Art by TAKURO KUWATA
Lastly, the Storiescategory, artists are tasked with weaving imaginative tales that delve into the wondrous world of Pokémon, venturing into their awe-inspiring journeys, vibrant lives, mesmerizing evolutions, and unique inherent qualities of the Pokemon games themselves.
Art by REIKO SUDOArt by REIKO SUDO
We have hand-picked a few pieces from the exhibit’s opening night to share with you. Take a look at the photo gallery below and get a glimpse for what’s in store for you at Pokemon X Kogei exhibit. Click on the arrows to browse through the images.
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The Pokemon Company CEO, Tsunekazu Ishihara and National Crafts Museum director, Masahiro Karasawa were in attendance during the exhibition’s opening night. During a panel, those who attended, received insight knowledge on the production behind the exhibit and insight the some of the art pieces and what they represented. Towards the end of the panel, I had one lingering question, “After the art tour is over, what will happen to the wonderful art pieces?” this was their response. (Please note, Audio has some echo)
Don’t miss this exciting, once in a life-time, exhibit and experience Pokemon like never before and best of all, its FREE! That’s right, make your reservations now HERE. After the exhibit, we highly recommend you purchase the Pokemon X Kogei guide book that gives readers an in-depth insight on the development of the exhibition and insight on each and every Kogei art piece. The book is in both English and Japanese and ONLY available in Japan but exclusively available for purchase at Japan House Los Angeles for this special exhibit! The exhibit is available now til January 7th, 2024 only at JAPAN HOUSE Gallery and is located at Level 2 of the Ovation Hollywood.
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