Created by COAMIX, Inc., a Tokyo-based publisher specializing in manga, the Artists Village Aso 096k is a facility where young, talented artists can focus exclusively on manga creation. The facility aims to create a community of international and Japanese creators who can share tips and support each other as they work towards serialization. Additionally, each creator works with editors on-site while developing their ideas. The facility is located in the Aso region of Southwestern Japan, and also contributes to regional revitalization.
A selection of creators who proved their zeal and talent by in our international manga contest, the SILENT MANGA AUDITIONⓇ, were invited to the Artists Village to practice the craft of Japanese manga. Currently, many of the creators are working on their original serialization ideas, while others have already made their series debut. We hope that, upon returning to their countries, these creators will spread the knowledge they learned in Japan and foster communities of manga creators worldwide.
The Artists Village also hosts creators from rural Southwest Japan. Japanese creators are invited to the Artists Village with the hopes that an atmosphere of friendly rivalry and mutual encouragement can spark their creativity. As most publishing companies operate in Tokyo, many resources for aspiring manga creators are centered in Tokyo. The Artists Village aims to offer those same resources to creators living in rural Japan.
In 2023, COAMIX collaborated with the local government of Takamori Town in Aso Province to launch a Manga Department in Takamori High School. This was the first-ever Manga Department in a public high school in Japan. The Takamori High School Manga Department was launched as a part of COAMIX’s efforts to make manga education accessible to all, regardless of class or financial standing. Kumamoto COAMIX contributes by creating a curriculum and providing lecturers for the manga classes. Furthermore, students who show promise are also provided with editorial support, and all students are welcome to use the facilities and the technology provided at the Artists Village.
The facility is fully equipped for every artist’s professional needs, as well as for leisure. The Artists Village is designed to offer the latest digital tools, but is also surrounded by nature to allow for rest and relaxation away from the digital world.
Introduction of the Facilities >>
Creators at the Artists Village receive support for their daily lives, including meals prepared by professional chefs. Additionally, creators live in residential buildings with a shared living room in order to facilitate communication with other manga creators. Equipped with all the facilities necessary to live comfortably day to day, creators can devote themselves entirely to manga creation.
The Artists Village Aso 096k aims to invite young creators from all over the globe and offer them a place where they can gain invaluable experience to help them debut in Japan. Join SMA, become a part of the MasterClass, and get your chance to work as a manga creator in Japan!
SMA Official Email (sma_info@coamix.co.jp)
SMA Editorial Department (Takamori office)
Artists Village Aso 096 Ku
2803 Kamishikimi, Takamori-machi
Aso-gun, Kumamoto, JAPAN 869-1601
