“Thanks to the skilled drawings that were filled with expressiveness, Enewald’s vision was conveyed well. The production quality was extremely high for a one-shot manga, but I felt there could have been more originality could have been included. Always think about how to make your manga most enjoyable for the reader!” – Mamare Arai-sensei
“Fragments of the Soul” is a one-shot manga that tells the story of a troubled boy named Oliver who’s supported by his loving Grandfather. When he’s suddenly transported to a strange world beyond his wildest dreams, he’ll have to look deep within himself and face his hidden emotions!
A special illustration and comment from Enewald were featured in the in the August 2022 issue of Monthly Comic ZENON, which we have translated!
“I’m incredibly grateful that I received another award from Comic ZENON and COAMIX! I have always wanted to a draw manga with “shapes” as a motif, so I feel honored for this manga to have been evaluated by the judges.” –Enewald
Enewald’s work is just one of the manga created by the SMA MasterClass that has won an award in Monthly Comic ZENON’s manga contests! With the support of the SMA Editorial Department, the MasterClass members are showing year after year their potential to Japanese readers.
Name:Max DemonsAge: 25
Country: Italy
Favorite manga:Demon SlayerFavorite movie:Good Will HuntingFavorite quote:“It can’t rain all the time.” -Eric Draven (Brandon Lee) from the movie The CrowEntry title: Wonder BrotherRound:SMA16 “Moments of FEAR, JOY, or LOVE”Award: Honorable Mention
“Above all, think about the shape of the story and what message you want to convey with this.”
About SMA
How does it feel to win a SILENT MANGA AUDITION® award?
I was very happy. I didn’t expect to win. But all my efforts paid off, despite the difficult situation I was in.
What was the inspiration behind your awarded work?
The story was created during the world quarantine situation. With it, I wanted to represent the strength to move forward despite difficulties and to always be altruistic towards others.
What challenges did you face while making your manga? How did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I encountered while making my manga was my health condition. At that time I was undergoing chemotherapy and with quarantine I was totally isolated from the world. I overcame it with the desire to leave something in the world. I wanted to make my voice heard – like my character, I, too, wanted to find the courage to take flight.
How and when did you start making manga? Any advice for beginners?
I have always drawn from an early age. I was copying the characters of the anime I was watching and I started drawing my own stories around the age of 14. The advice for those who want to start is to draw a lot and not to stop in the face of difficulties. At first, your drawings may not be beautiful or satisfying, but they will be the basis for reaching higher and higher heights.
Do you draw your manga digitally or by hand? What are your go-to digital or analogue tools?
I have always drawn traditionally, but for this story I decided to experiment with digital tools. I have always worked with a G Pen and even in digital I use the same brush.
What was the first manga you picked up?
The first manga I got was Shugo Chara! by PEACH-PIT.
Which manga changed your life?
Umibe no Onnanoko by Inio Asano. I was very impressed with the script of the story.
Which manga character do you most identify with? Why?
Vegeta because he is mega serious and evolves from a villain to a hero, but despite everything he is the perennial second.
What kind of manga do you want to make next?
I want to experience a comic story.
About Max Demons
What do you do when you’re not making manga? How do you relax?
I like going to the gym to take my mind off work or I like to watch movies or TV series to study about scripts.
What industry do you work in (if manga making isn’t your primary job?)
I am a webcomic colorist and I also work as a pizza chef.
Where do you see your manga career in 5 years’ time?
I don’t know. I hope in 5 years to be able to publish my story, which allows me to tell something about myself.
What manga making advice would you give to your younger self if you could?
I would tell him to practice a lot on anatomy and perspective, without being afraid of making mistakes.
What advice would you give to people entering the SILENT MANGA AUDITION®?
To get involved and not be afraid of failing. Above all, think about the shape of the story and what message you want to convey with this.
Thank you, Max Demons! We can’t wait to see your next masterpiece that will bring us to TEARS! We’re expecting your SMA18 entry!
You have time until August1st to WOW the judges and have a chance to develop your potential as a manga creator with us in Japan!
HELLO SMA16 AWARD WINNER, Alexey Trishkin!
PROFILE
Name: Alexey Trishkin
Age: 30
Country: Russia
Favorite manga:Naruto, Shiori Experience, Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, 20th Century Boys, Attack On Titan, Spy x FamilyFavorite movie:Catch Me If You Can, The Shawshank Redemption, The Rock, ah… there are so many of them.Favorite quote:“Sic Parvis Magna.”Entry title: Parent and ChildRound:SMA16 “Moments of FEAR, JOY, or LOVE”Award: Honorable Mention
“Don’t stress too much and don’t get obsessed with winning. Just enjoy the process and grow as an artist!”
About SMA
How does it feel to win a SILENT MANGA AUDITION® award?
It wasn’t my first audition. After several attempts, I began to doubt my abilities as a mangaka. But the third time, I saw my name on the list of winners, and I was so happy! It’s very important for us creative people to see the result of our time and effort. Especially in those moments when you think “maybe I’m doing the wrong thing and should stop drawing manga?” So for me it’s a signal to keep working and sharpening my skills.
What was the inspiration behind your awarded work?
While thinking about which theme to choose, I came across an advertisement on YouTube. It was an advertisement for a charitable center to raise money for seriously ill children. It had a short interview with a mother and child that was very hard to watch. After watching the crying mother who is trying her best to save her child I chose the theme of fear; the fear of losing a child.
What challenges did you face while making your manga? How did you overcome them?
Speed! This is my biggest problem at the moment. I spend too much time on storyboarding. I redo it too much, I often don’t like how the work comes out, and I spend too much time on details that no one will pay attention to. In general, every time it is sweat, pain and tears. But I believe that with practice I will overcome it, right?
How and when did you start making manga? Any advice for beginners?
It’s quite a long story. I’ve been a fan of Japanese animation since I was a kid. Sailor Moon was my first love. I also loved watching Pokémon and Shaman King. But that all changed when they started showing Naruto on TV.
Afterwards, thanks to friends, I found out that this series is based on a manga. And then a new world opened up for me. Since I liked drawing, making up stories in my head, I decided that I would also draw my own manga. But at that point my level wasn’t good enough and I was convinced I would never be able to draw like a professional. So 10 years later, I decided to give myself another chance. If you’d known how much I regret that I gave up painting then…So my advice to beginners is don’t make stupid mistakes like I did. Draw now and don’t even think about stopping!
Do you draw your manga digitally or by hand? What are your go-to digital or analogue tools?I draw digitally on a Huion tablet. And my one and only app is ClipStudioPaint.
What was the first manga you picked up?
It was Naruto.
Which manga changed your life?
Again, it’s Naruto, because thanks to him I was introduced to the world of manga and decided to draw myself. But aside from Naruto, I recently came across another great manga. It’s called Shiori Experience. I stumbled upon it thanks to the recommendation of a mangaka on Twitter. I’m more into shonen/adventure, and this manga is school life/seinen/slice of life. It’s about a high school band. But I didn’t expect how incredible it was. You know, it’s hard to get me emotional. But while reading this manga, there were a few moments when I couldn’t hold back the tears. Both Kazuya Machida and Yūkō Osada made awesome manga. I haven’t had so much fun reading a manga in a long time. It didn’t change my life, but it gave me a whole new perspective on my work. I learned a lot from them. Definitely recommend reading it.
Which manga character do you most identify with? Why?
Well…probably Shikamaru from Naruto. I’m not as smart as him, but I’m just as lazy. 🙂
What kind of manga do you want to make next?
A manga with dialogue.😆 Silent manga definitely made me stronger, but I still feel a little stiff in this format. That’s why I’m working on a few oneshots for other contests right now. But I also plan to stay a part of the community and keep entering silent manga auditions.
About Alexey Trishkin
What do you do when you’re not making manga? How do you relax?
Just like everyone else. I spend time with friends and family, watch movies, and like to be alone with nature. Nothing special.
What industry do you work in (if manga making isn’t your primary job?)
I am a freelance concept artist. I draw here and there.
Where do you see your manga career in 5 years’ time?
Again, like most people here, I want to be part of the Japanese manga industry and participate in domestic Japanese contests, get serialized in a magazine or on a web platform.
What manga making advice would you give to your younger self if you could?
Don’t quit drawing and study more!!!
What advice would you give to people entering the SILENT MANGA AUDITION®?
Don’t stress too much and don’t get obsessed with winning. Just enjoy the process and grow as an artist.
Thank you, Alexey Trishkin! What will be your NEXT inspiration for your SMA18 entry? It’s safe to say that we’re filled with HAPPINESS as we wait for your next entry!
You have time until August1st to WOW the judges and have a chance to develop your potential as a manga creator with us in Japan!
HELLO SMA16 AWARD WINNER, Don!
PROFILE
Name: Don
Age: 29
Country:From Finland, lives in Sweden Favorite manga:Recently I’ve really enjoyed Dr. Stone, BL Metamorphosis, and Bloody Sugar Laughs at the Night.Favorite movie:The Shape of Water and ContactEntry title: Dear SketchbookRound:SMA16 “Moments of FEAR, JOY, or LOVE”Award: Honorable Mention
“Ask someone you trust for honest feedback early on! It can really change the way you see your story.”
About SMA
How does it feel to win a SILENT MANGA AUDITION® award?
I was so happy! It was really exciting to scroll down the results announcement and… there was my entry! Many people helped me polish my manga, so I’m really grateful for all the help I received.
What was the inspiration behind your awarded work?
“Dear Sketchbook” is not the first comic I’ve made about self-esteem and comparing yourself to others. I wanted to tell a positive story where the main character experiences a switch of focus, going from feelings of depression to pride. Perhaps like many of us, the main character feels down about their art when comparing it to the art of strangers on the internet. In the end they remember the child-like joy of making art and feel grateful towards their past self for always trying their hardest. I definitely based a lot of the story on feelings I’ve gone through myself.
What challenges did you face while making your manga? How did you overcome them?
Landing on a design that I like for the main character was a struggle. I sketched variations of their face for what felt like forever, and it still feels like the one I ended up with appeared by accident. I just wanted to have a main character that would be fun to draw and to look at, but it was unexpectedly difficult.
How and when did you start making manga? Any advice for beginners?
I’ve drawn comics for fun for as long as I can remember and made fan comics based on my favorite series occasionally. It was only in 2019 when I was invited to a retro manga inspired comics anthology that I started making manga and comics actively. I guess my piece of advice for anyone would be: why not do a fun fan comic based on your favorite anime sometimes? You can learn a lot by using an already existing world and characters, and it’s a great way to see what you enjoy drawing and what you don’t.
Do you draw your manga digitally or by hand? What are your go-to digital or analogue tools?
I like the hand-drawn “aura” of traditional, nib-on-paper manga. I love the thought of the manga page I’m reading existing somewhere as a physical object, and the warmth shines through even in print. I think it’s interesting to look at manga drawn by others and try to guess which parts are digital and which are traditional. I’d love to do my pages 100% traditionally, but I’ve ended up using digital screentones.
What was the first manga you picked up?
Like most manga-interested Nordic people of my age – it was Dragon Ball. Dragon Ball appearing in stores started the Nordic “manga boom” of the early 2000s, when I was little. I was of course swept completely into the “boom,” since I’d been interested in all things Japanese since kindergarten.
Which manga changed your life?
Shaman King by Hiroyuki Takei. I discovered it way back in 5th grade. The artwork of the first chapters was unlike anything I’d seen before, and I initially didn’t like it (I was more of a Tokyo Mew Mew kid!). But after I gave it another shot, it grew on me and Shaman King became my everything for many years. The main character Yoh’s worldview left a huge impression on me and I think it shaped me as a person.
Which manga character do you most identify with? Why?
A friend told me that Urara in BL Metamorphosis (by Kaori Tsurutani) reminded him of me when I was younger. Thinking about it, though our personalities are very different, Urara’s fear of facing the things she loves was very relatable to me. Her journey was depicted very delicately and beautifully.
What kind of manga do you want to make next?
I’d like to try drawing more manga based on real-life experiences…but also stories taking place in cool fantasy worlds that would make the reader want to create original characters based on that world!
About Don
What do you do when you’re not making manga? How do you relax?
I like to visit cafés and draw for fun.
What industry do you work in (if manga making isn’t your primary job?)
I’m a freelance comic artist and illustrator.
Where do you see your manga career in 5 years’ time?
My life has changed so much during the past 5 years, I don’t even dare guess what’s to come.
What manga making advice would you give to your younger self if you could?
If I could time-travel to encourage my past self I would say, “Keep up the great work! Thanks to your effort now, I’m having even more fun drawing in the future. Bet you can’t wait to see!”
What advice would you give to people entering the SILENT MANGA AUDITION®?
Ask someone you trust for honest feedback early on! It can really change the way you see your story.
Thank you, Don! We’re eagerly expecting your SMA18 entry and we wish that drawing makes you feel even more AFFECTION for manga creation!
You have time until August1st to WOW the judges and have a chance to develop your potential as a manga creator with us in Japan!
How does it feel to win a SILENT MANGA AUDITION® award?
I feel very excited and encouraged. It is a sign that this is the right path! But I know it’s just the beginning.
What was the inspiration behind your awarded work?
I have to thank my friends, in particular Francesca, who told me the story that inspired my manga.
What challenges did you face while making your manga? How did you overcome them?
Actually, I have to confess that my biggest obstacle when creating my stories is dialogue! I have enormous difficulties, but, as you can imagine, in this case it was no problem!
How and when did you start making manga? Any advice for beginners?
I started making manga after reading ONE PIECE. I realized that I could express myself through my characters.
Do you draw your manga digitally or by hand? What are your go-to digital or analogue tools?
I started drawing by hand. Especially in comics school. Then I started getting to know digital, which I currently love. In particular, I use Manga Studio.
What was the first manga you picked up?
ONE PIECE.
Which manga changed your life?
Many. But if I had to pick two, I’d say Dragonball and ONE PIECE.
Which manga character do you most identify with? Why?
Probably Griffith from Berserk. I have a dream and I am willing to make enormous sacrifices to achieve it.
About Virand
What do you do when you’re not making manga? How do you relax?
I am currently working on my first manga of 3 volumes titled “Harakiri.” It’s a part of a huge multiverse I’ve had in mind for more than 10 years. It will be like ONE PIECE.
Where do you see your manga career in 5 years’ time?
In my country, there is a superstition which says it is bad to talk about the future. But very, very far!
What manga making advice would you give to your younger self if you could?
I would recommend doing what I feel like. Just how I did it.
What advice would you give to people entering the SILENT MANGA AUDITION®?
Don’t imitate the Japanese! Create something new. Merge your culture with theirs to amaze them and to create innovation and progress!
Thank you, Virand! We can’t wait to see your SMA18 entry and hope that it will move the readers to TEARS!
You have time until August1st to SURPRISE the judges and potentially get the chance to develop your potential as a manga creator with us in Japan!
HELLO SMA16 AWARD WINNER, Gawinsat!
PROFILE
Name: Gawinsat
Age: 42
Country: Thailand
Favorite manga:City HunterFavorite movie:Mad Max: Fury RoadEntry title: The AnswerRound:SMA16 “Moments of FEAR, JOY, or LOVE”Award: Excellence Award
“Time management is critical. Make sure you can make a high quality piece of work before the deadline.”
About SMA
How does it feel to win a SILENT MANGA AUDITION® award?
It’s great! This is the first award that I got since SMA changed the page limit rules to not be over 17 pages. That rule was introduced with SMA15. I thought it was quite difficult to tell the story within 17 pages and I did not get any award from that round. Therefore, winning this round is very meaningful for me. It is proof that I could overcome this limitation.
What was the inspiration behind your awarded work?
My inspiration is the intense situation in the exam room. I thought about how exciting it is when students do something in the exam room. Then, I combined it with the selected theme “Moments of Love.” Finally, I came up with the idea about a student who expresses their feelings in the exam room.
What challenges did you face while making your manga? How did you overcome them?
The theme and the limited number of pages are the challenges. The theme is about feelings which the reader has to feel after reading the story. It is not easy at all! And I have to tell the story within 17 pages.I overcame these challenges by choosing “Moments of Love” which is the theme that is more obvious than others. To overcome the limitation of pages, I tried to shorten the story to fit inside the 17 pages.
How and when did you start making manga? Any advice for beginners?
I started making manga in 2013 when I had a chance to read Bakuman. It inspired me to produce my own manga.
Do you draw your manga digitally or by hand? What are your go-to digital or analogue tools?
I draw my manga by hand, black pencil and ink on paper. I use digital tools such as Photoshop for finishing up the artwork.
What was the first manga you picked up?
I cannot remember. Maybe Doraemon.
Which manga changed your life?
It’s Bakuman. As I mentioned earlier, I started drawing manga after I read Bakuman. Thanks to my manga, I could get other related jobs such as storyboard artist and illustrator. Now, I can have a second job as a manga creator.
What kind of manga do you want to make next?
I have no idea yet. I am preparing for SMA18. I hope that I can get an award that is higher than the Excellence Award.
About Gawinsat
What do you do when you’re not making manga? How do you relax?
I do my office job during the weekdays. On the weekend, I prefer to watch movies and series if I am not making manga.
What industry do you work in (if manga making isn’t your primary job?)
I work in the financial industry as a digital marketing officer.
Where do you see your manga career in 5 years’ time?
It may be my secondary job and hobby apart from my primary job.
What manga making advice would you give to your younger self if you could?
Time management is critical. Make sure you can make a high quality piece of work before the deadline.
What advice would you give to people entering the SILENT MANGA AUDITION®?
Read the theme of each round carefully. You have to know very clearly what the judges are looking for. It is not about the tools. You can win this award by drawing your manga by hand if your work can represent the theme well.
Thank you, Gawinsat! We can’t wait to see your SMA18 entry and hope that it will bring you the answer to HAPPINESS!
You have time until August1st to WOO the judges and have a chance to develop your potential as a manga creator with us in Japan!
In Regards to a Work that Bears a Strong Resemblance to an Awarded SMA Entry
Recently, it came to the attention of the SILENT MANGA AUDITION®︎ (SMA) that an award-winning work in the 2021 15th Japan International MANGA Award showed a strong resemblance to MasterClass member Yoonmi’s 2019 SMA-EX5 Excellence award-winning work “Daze.”
Upon realizing this, SMA reached out to the Japan International MANGA Award Executive Committee regarding this matter. The committee conducted an investigation and ultimately withdrew the awarded work in question that bore a strong resemblance to “Daze.” An official announcement from the Committee regarding this matter can be found here and on their homepage.
Additional publication on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website in English:
https://www.mofa.go.jp/p_pd/ca_opr/page22e_000980.htmlhttps://www.mofa.go.jp/policy/culture/exchange/pop/manga/index.html
Additional publication on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website in Japanese:
https://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/p_pd/ca_opr/page22_003854.htmlhttps://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/gaiko/culture/koryu/pop/manga/index.html
SMA is thankful for the cooperation of the Committee and is relieved that this matter has been concluded. It is SMA’s belief that it is in all of our interests to support young artists to be able to create in a fair and friendly competitive environment. SMA will continue to protect the copyrights of all entries submitted to SMA and to support artists around the world in order to share their love of manga without infringing on the works and images of other artists.
SMA is looking forward to your continued participation and support.
Sincerely,
The SILENT MANGA AUDITION®︎
April 18, 2022
HELLO SMA16 AWARD WINNER, Ichigin!
PROFILE
Name: Ichigin
Age: 27
Country: Spain
Favorite manga:Inuyasha and BleachFavorite movie:Back to the Future Part IIFavorite quote: “Now tomorrow seems scary but the next week you will see it as something far away.”
Entry title: 坂道リメンバー(An Uphill Road to Remember)Round:SMA16 “Moments of FEAR, JOY, or LOVE”Award: Excellence Award
“The true heart of a story is the plot!”
About SMA
How does it feel to win a SILENT MANGA AUDITION® award?
It is a moment that fills you with illusion and hope. Not only have you won an important contest in the birthplace of manga, but renowned mangaka have recognized your work. That means that becoming a mangaka is not just a dream and that you are on the right path. In addition, people from all over the world can enjoy your work and vice versa. It is something wonderful.
What was the inspiration behind your awarded work?
So far I was creating manga that didn’t interest me personally since I drew them for the reader, but being a little selfish I chose to do something that really moved me, because if the author doesn’t identify with his work, how are readers going to do it? A few months ago my grandfather passed away and I was moved thinking about what my grandmother must be feeling (who also passed away shortly after I won an award in SMA16). I feel that I have only been able to express 45% of what was in my head so I am not really happy with the work. It makes me see that I still have a lot to learn.
What challenges did you face while making your manga? How did you overcome them?
The main challenge was to combine the present and past scenes without losing the understanding of the plot. I was also worried that the entrance and exit of the flashbacks would always be the same and boring to watch. The way to solve it was… invest more time to think well about how I wanted to do it haha.
How and when did you start making manga? Any advice for beginners?
I started drawing manga to imitate the stories that I loved so much about katanas and spiritual powers. I drew my first serious manga when I was 13 years old and it had 21 pages. After that I haven’t stopped and from the end of 2016 when I met my master Toshio my level really went through the roof.
One piece of advice for beginners is to never start learning manga digitally. It is very important that you practice techniques such as hatching or kakiami in a traditional way. Another tip would be that before you start drawing pages take enough time to understand how to use the genkōyoshi and basic rules like introducing the readers with general panels instead of going into specific details directly.
Do you draw your manga digitally or by hand? What are your go-to digital or analogue tools?
I started by hand and in fact I still like scratching the pen against the paper better but the digital way allows you to create faster and with higher quality, something vital to make a living from manga professionally.
What was the first manga you picked up?
Before I had already seen some manga from classmates, but the first one I personally went to buy was volume 9 of ONE PIECE (Arlong vs. Luffy) when I was 9 or 10 years old. I remember that I didn’t even know that manga was read backwards compared to European books and I started reading it from the end… I’m still embarrassed haha.
Which manga changed your life?
More than manga I would say anime. For me, Inuyasha’s story was the one that made me fall in love with Japan and everything that has to do with the country. Its culture, landscapes, legends, people, swords… I’ve even cried once after waking up from a dream where I was finally in Japan due to the anger of having to leave its movie landscapes. Thanks to Inuyasha, from a very young age I knew that my future was in Japan and today my wife is Japanese and as soon as I can I will move there to live with her finally.
Which manga character do you most identify with? Why?
Definitely with Mashiro Moritaka from Bakuman. Before entering the world of manga and Japan, there weren’t too many things that interested me. I wasn’t interested in talking about football, cars, nightclubs… so a wide world opened up to me with manga. But apart from that trait, what I identify with the most is his aspiration to become a professional manga artist and his relationship with Miho Azuki, the protagonist. In the manga, they must be separated for several years until they fulfill their dreams and get married in order to finally be together. Like them, I have been away from my wife for more than 2 years because of the restrictions between countries and while the only thing we can both do is improve in our respective areas so that when we can meet we will have a more stable future.
What kind of manga do you want to make next?
Although it is not the professional way of thinking, I would like to do something selfish and draw the kind of story composed of the elements that amaze me the most. Something full of grotesque creatures, demons, gods and katanas with incredible powers. Of course the plot would unfold in feudal Japan. Something that I would also love to draw would be a Blame or Ghost in the shell style theme. Sci-fi filled with robots and people with mechanical prosthetics embarking on journeys through a cyberpunk universe. But being more realistic, the most sensible thing is to continue with dramas of everyday life with touches of humor so that the reader feels easily identified.
About Ichigin
What do you do when you’re not making manga? How do you relax?
Well, if I’m not drawing manga I’m working on my other jobs or improving my Japanese so… haha. But when I really want to relax under the blinds, I grab a blanket and put on a good movie or read a novel. Walking also helps me a lot but the truth is that I don’t usually have more than a couple of free hours a day normally.
What industry do you work in (if manga making isn’t your primary job?)
I am currently giving manga classes at a drawing academy. There I also give Japanese language lessons up to level N3-N2. On the other hand, I also work on a story for a Spanish publisher, although my goal is to debut in Japan and work there as a manga creator.
Where do you see your manga career in 5 years’ time?
In Japan, without a doubt.
What manga making advice would you give to your younger self if you could?
I would tell him to become a politician and earn a lot of money without working at all hahaha. Just kidding, I would tell him to stop drawing stupidly and take some time to learn the basics by watching shows like Urasawa Naoki’s “Manben” or “Jump Ryu” documentaries and video tutorials from the SILENT MANGA AUDITION® community. I have really learned a lot of key facts about how to create manga with them.
What advice would you give to people entering the SILENT MANGA AUDITION®?
First of all, I would like to advise them to watch as many video tutorials from the SILENT MANGA AUDITION® community as they can. But seeing them is not enough. They should really internalize what is explained in those videos because they are the most essential keys of Japanese manga. I’d also like to tell them to make sure they read the size, weight, and page limit requirements for the contest before they even plan the story. Finally, I would like to tell them that a nice drawing gives a lot of points but the true heart of a story is the plot and the way it is built so I would like them to pay special attention to this part.
Thank you, Ichigin! We’re eagerly expecting your future masterpieces and hope that thinking about entering SMA18 makes your heart brimming with AFFECTION!
You have time until August1st to WOW the judges and have a chance to develop your potential as a manga creator with us in Japan!
Finnish MasterClass Enewald's awarded manga printed in Japan!
New MasterClass member Enewaldhas been published in the Japanese manga magazine “Monthly Comic ZENON” after receiving the top award in Monthly Comic ZENON’s 23rd Manga Taisho manga contest! Enewald is the second MasterClass member to do so after Australian MasterClass member monotone_ink, who’s recent award winning manga was also published in Monthly Comic ZENON.
Manga Taisho is Comic ZENON’s oldest contest where Japanese newcomers can prove themselves DIRECTLY to their future fans with a 39 page entry. It’s not only judged by manga legends such as Tsukasa Hojo-sensei and Tetsuo Hara-sensei, but also by booksellers and the general public. Enewald’s touching entry “The Sunflower Theorem” (Japanese title: Himawari no Teiri) received the top award of this round, allowing the Finnish creator to have their work published in the latest issue of Monthly Comic ZENON.
The following is a comment from Comic ZENON’s 23rd Manga Taisho special judge Homura Kawamoto-sensei (writer of The War of Greedy Witches etc.) regarding Enewald’s entry:
The expressions that were conveyed throughout the manga were superb. It was vastly enjoyable to read, due the fact that just one expression, such as an innocent, happy face or a face in despair, lets you understand 120% of the situation. I thought the manga could be even better if the theme of “mathematics” was more involved in the main theme of “friends” during the last scene.
“The Sunflower Theorem” tells the story of Noe, a very special girl with a great passion for math and the ability to see it in the beauty of nature and daily life. For this reason, Noe doesn’t have many friends that can understand her, but this doesn’t bother the young girl as long she has her beloved numbers with her. However, everything will change for Noe once a new classmate, Maika, arrives to math class…
A page from “The Sunflower Theorem” – go to the bottom of this article to read the English version of this manga!
In the latest Monthly Comic ZENON, a special illustration and exclusive interview with fresh, new talent Enewald was featured in the issue, which we have translated!
1. What are your feelings towards your award?
I’m shocked, but happy! It’s like a dream that my manga was chosen to receive an award. I’m too happy.
2. What made you decide to enter Manga Taisho?
My editor first told me about Manga Taisho. I had never drawn a manga with dialogue, and wanted to join the contest as a challenge.
3. What was the inspiration behind your entry?
Actually, I drew from a lot of my past experiences. In my hometown there’s a sunflower field, an old school in the countryside, and I even had a math showdown with a classmate. It ended with us in a draw (laughs).
4. What was the hardest part in drawing this entry?
Definitely it was the sunflower seeds. I tried out different ways of drawing them until I was satisfied with one. Drawing the backgrounds was also difficult.
5. What’s your favorite part of the manga?
Personally, I like the scene where Noe goes to the sunflower field and the scene where she sits across from Maika right before the math showdown. I also enjoyed applying the screen tones to show the lighting effects.
6. Please tell us what manga you are reading recently.
Lately I’ve been reading Vinland Saga, Land of the Lustrous, and Golden Kamui.
7. What kind of manga do you want to create next?
I haven’t decided, but for now I want to draw a lot of manga!
8. Please leave a message for our readers.
I am full of gratitude and respect if you are not good at math and still read my manga! I will do my best to deliver other works to you from now on. I hope you enjoyed “The Sunflower Theorem!”
Enewald’s work is only one of the manga created by the SMA MasterClass that won an award in Monthly Comic ZENON’s manga awards; with the support of the SMA Editorial Department, the MasterClass members are showing year after year their potential to the Japanese readers.
“The Sunflower Theorem” and “My Friend Mana” have also been published IN JAPANESE on the Monthly Comic ZENON website! Take a look and leave a comment to support Enewald and monotone_ink by clicking the banners below❤️
The Kumamoto Reporter #08 – The Tastes of Kyushu
Hey SMA community! Last time we took a peek into the fantastical world of Kumamoto’s legends and infamous “Yokai,” or Japanese spirits. This time we’ll learn about another magical part of Kumamoto Prefecture and Kyushu: the food! Hope you guys are feeling hungry, we’re about to go on a food tasting trip across Kyushu to discover the most delectable specialties of each prefecture.Kumamoto: BasashiBasashi is a combination of the Japanese kanji for horse, which can be read as “Ba” and “sashimi” which is slices of raw fish served with soy sauce, wasabi, and ginger. Yup, that’s right; Basashi is slices of raw horse meat. There’s many speculations as to why it became a Kumamoto specialty, but one story tells of when samurai were forced to eat their horses when under siege in a castle. Served cold and with soy sauce like sashimi, Basashi is tender and sweet, similar to beef. If you’re hesitant to try Basashi, don’t worry; other famous Kumamoto tastes are Karashi Renkon (mustard lotus root), Japanese brown beef from Aso, Kumamoto ramen, and a Chinese-based noodle dish called Taipien.
Fukuoka: Hakata RamenWhen people think of Kyushu ramen, they think of Hakata ramen! Served with a creamy pork bone based broth, Hakata ramen’s signature style is its thin noodles. It usually comes with thin slices of pork and chopped green onions, but if you’re feeling in the mood for some variety you can also add a hard boiled egg, wood ear mushrooms, pickled ginger root, garlic, bean sprouts, sesame seeds, or more. The Hakata and Tenjin districts of Fukuoka City are also known for their late night food stalls called “Yatai,” and a hot pot dish made with pork tripe is also a famous Fukuoka speciality.
Nagasaki: ChamponMORE noodles! Champon is made by frying pork, seafood, and vegetables together, and then boiling it all together in soup with a special type of ramen noodle. It’s inspired by Chinese food, which is only natural since Nagasaki has its own Chinatown and deep history with Chinese trade. If you do make your way to the oldest Chinatown in Japan, you can enjoy Chinese food with a Nagasaki twist and Nagasaki’s famous Turkish Rice dish. If you’re fiending for dessert afterward, be sure to try Nagasaki’s famous Castella cake!
Saga: Aritaware CurryAritaware Curry’s name has a double meaning; the curry is a special kind of Japanese curry that’s baked, which is then served in “Arita yakimono.” Arita yakimono is the Japanese name for Arita City’s pottery, which literally means “baked” or “burnt” thing in Japanese. Saga’s pottery is famous all over Japan, and often has pottery festivals where you can buy beautiful handcrafted pieces. But enough about pottery, back to the food! Some other famous tastes in Saga include Karatsu Burger, Kanzaki Soumen, boiled tofu, squid, and other seafood.
Oita: Dango JiruSoup for the soul! Dango Jiru is Oita’s unique spin on “Dago Jiru,” a healthy soup that is popular across Kyushu. Dango are round Japanese dumplings, but in Oita they are stretched out into the shape of noodles and cooked with chicken and vegetables in miso soup. “Jigoku Mushi” is another unique cuisine of Oita, and comes from Beppu’s “hells” or hot springs. Ingredients such as vegetables and eggs are placed in a small chamber and with a lid placed over them, and with time the steam from the hot springs cook the ingredients! Other famous tastes of Oita include tempura style fried chicken, Reimen (cold noodles), and Hyugadon, which is tuna over rice.
Miyazaki: Chicken NanbanChicken Nanban is an example of Western food that has been adapted to suit Japanese tastes. Originating in Miyazaki, juicy fried chicken called “Karaage” is marinated with a special sauce and then covered in tartar sauce. This indulgent spin on fried chicken may not be the healthiest, but Chicken Nanban is often served with salad on the side. Other tastes of Miyazaki include Karamen (spicy noodles), rice balls wrapped in pork, Miyazaki beef, and mango flavored sweets.Kagoshima: KurobutaKurobuta, which literally means “black pig,” are said to have been brought to Kagoshima from the Ryukyu Kingdom (which includes present day Okinawa) about 400 years ago. Today, free-range Kurobuta in Kagoshima are known for their sweetness and rich flavor. The meat is crisp, tender, firm, and juicy, with the fat being light. You can savor this high-quality meat in a variety of ways, but eating it in a kind of hot-pot dish called Shabu-Shabu is hugely popular. Shabu-Shabu is traditionally enjoyed with beef, but Kurobuta has made pork Shabu-Shabu spread across Japan. Other famous tastes of Kagoshima include Abura Soumen, shaved-ice called “Shiro-Kuma,” chicken sashimi, and sweet potato shochu, an alcoholic drink much stronger than sake.
These are the most famous mouth watering specialties of each prefecture in Kyushu, but Kyushu is also known for its high quality fruit, vegetables, livestock, and marine products. If you want to learn more about how this connects to us in the Artists Village, be sure to check out the latest article from the Artists Village Insider to learn more about Zizoya, the gourmet subsidiary of COAMIX Inc., and how they’re merging manga with gourmet!
