SMAC! MANGA DOJO #4 – "GET IT DONE!" <Characters>Penmaru Is a ninja dog who dreams of becoming the greatest manga creator in the animal world. To help achieve his dream, Mocchi gives him a mission… “Learn how to create manga at the Manga Dojo.” His favorite food is Ramen. “Shihan” Manga Master The master of the dojo and Penmaru’s tutor in the ways of manga. An experienced editor who had worked in the manga industry for over 30 years. His favorite food is Niku-jaga (Japanese Meat & Potato Stew) <Previously in MANGA DOJO…>“If you want to develop your skills in creating manga, draw SILENT MANGA!!”Motivated by Shihan’s lesson, Penmaru decided to join the SILENT MANGA AUDITION®, his first step to become a professional manga creator.He immediately attempted to create his first manga, fueled by passion and determination… but…?
Ep.2 ”GET IT DONE!”
Penmaru: Aha, that’s true! Alright, I’m definitely going to try! Penmaru: Now it’s time to order manuscript papers, inks and pens!!! Here I goooooooooooo!! Shihan: Wait wait waaaaaaaaiiiiit!! Hold it!!! Penmaru: Eeeeeeh!?!? What is it , Shihan!? I want to draw manga, and entertain everyone right now!! Shihan: And that is exactly why you must “WAIT”! Shihan: Manuscript paper? Inks and pens? Penmaru, are you planning to start drawing without any preparation? Penmaru: No way! I have the idea in mind already. All I have to do is draw a draft on paper and ink it! That’s how I make manga! Shihan: …… Penmaru: (Oh, he’s finally silent! I bet I’ve shocked him with how right I am, he has no reason to scold me this time!) Shihan: Penmaru… how much have you thought about your idea? Penmaru: ?? Well, I am planning to draw a manga where the protagonist cooperates with his all his teammates, plays well, and wins the match! Shihan: I see… and can you tell me how they play so well? Penmaru: Ah that! Well, I’ll come up with a reason as I draw. I wanna start drawing the cool action scenes and a charming protagonist first! 😉 Shihan: Penmaru… how many pages do you intend to draw, in how much time? Penmaru: Hmmmm, I’m not sure yet but I think I’ll have it finished in 2 weeks. Shihan: (I see, this boy…) Shihan: (He’s absolutely haphazard!!!) Penmaru: Hm? What’s the matter, sir? Shihan: Penmaru…In order to become successful, there is but one goal you must aim for. Do you know what that goal is? Penmaru: Win an award?? Become the top voted manga? After all, it’s better to aim for the best, if you gotta aim for anything! Shihan: I see how you think. But I think of it this way… Shihan: TO GET THE MANGA DONE!! Penmaru: !!! Penmaru: Huh!? Isn’t that too humble of you? Isn’t that aiming too low? Of course I need to get the manga done! Shihan: When you want to become the best, it may pretty obvious. However, this is at the very core of manga. No manga creator has been successful without working on the basics. Shihan: Just think about it, Penmaru. How much time does it take for you to draw one page? Penmaru: ??? About 4 hours I think, if you mean drawing the draft and inking it…… Shihan: I see. Now imagine… “What would you do if you change the story as during drawing?” Penmaru: Huh? Well……I would probably re-draw from the beginning. I don’t want something half baked, you know. Shihan: I see… so do you still think you could complete your manga in 2 weeks? Penmaru: !!!! I didn’t think about that!!!!! Shihan: Kazuo Koike sensei, a manga writer who co-created works include ‘Lone Wolf and Cub’ amongst many others, told this to the students in his manga classes:
“An ironclad rule to becoming a manga creator is to “complete a manga, no matter what”. This is very important. Whatever the content, once the END mark is added, a manga is considered completed and is now “a piece” or “a production”, which can be read by anybody, or sent to a manga competition. Also, completing a piece gives you confidence to move onto the next work… If you’re starting your manga career, first aim for completing your work and adding the END mark. Then, when you move to your next work, keep in mind your action to finalize/polish your manga while trying to complete it.”
Shihan: Creating a single manga episode… is already a very hard and time consuming task to accomplish. Just like you tried to do right now, if you start aimlessly drawing, you will most likely bump into an unexpected obstacle. Shihan: Needless to say, it’s absolutely absurd to just give up drawing the work you promised to complete, just because you faced an obstacle. You can never the win trust from either the editor or the reader this way! Penmaru: Nooooo!! Shihan: Right? However, things can be simple. All you have to do is prepare throughly, complete the manga, show it to people and get opinions. Shihan: You cannot make an aircraft if you don’t have the parts or the blueprint. You cannot cook without the recipe or the ingredients. Likewise, you cannot create a manga episode without a prepared idea. As they say, “more haste, less speed, better safe than sorry”! Shihan: A well prepared manga is easier to draw,, and less likely to fail. If you want to complete a manga sooner, it is important to plan one step at a time and go through it steadily. Penmaru: OK…! (Sweat) Penmaru: Ah… there’s so much to learn from Shihan… I still have lots to work to do. Can I really become the manga creator I dream of? Shihan: ……Penmaru. You do tend to go wild, and move mindlessly… Penmaru: (Ugh, he’s quite harsh!!) Shihan: But you have a strong weapon inside you… “Passion”. Just like Tezuka sensei insists, being able to continue drawing is a talent in itself. You are gifted, in the way you continue to work to make your dream come true. Shihan: As long as you are facing the right direction, your passion will lead you to become a beloved manga creator! Penmaru: !! Shihan…! Shihan: Good! Let’s rest for the day! Let me see your passionate, eager face tomorrow! Penmaru: Yes!! Thus, Penmaru’s noisy first day at the Dojo ends. How will he grow, under the strict yet loving tutelage of Shihan!?
The manga journey of this Ninja Dog to has only just begun…
What kind of lessons will await this young manga creator?
Read the next episode, to know the steps of manga creation!! < NEXT EPISODE… March 19 MON > Did you enjoy reading this story? Did you find a hint to improve your manga creation? If YES, please share the article with your fellow creators! And if NO, please let me know how I can improve! We welcome any kind of opinions and questions, requests and comments, anytime! Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter for updates 😉 Script: Mayuna Mizutani – Follow me on Twitter and Facebook Illustration: Roberto F. – Support him on Instagram,Facebook & APOIA.se Tweet your questions / opinions / reviews at #SMACMangaDojo, and I will answer! 😉 THE LEGEND OF "WASAMON" #1 : Pedestrian Scramble In the center of Kyushu, in the far west of Japan, lies a land called Kumamoto. Surrounded by a bottle green sea and towering mountains, this place of outstanding beauty is known as the “Land of Fire” by the local people…and where there is beautiful nature, unique and intriguing cultures flourish. Naturally, the people of Kumamoto have imbued their own culture and language with these same, mystifying characteristics. We have already discussed the word “WASAMON” – the theme of SMA-EX3, being a concept found solely in the Kumamoto dialect. Roughly translating as “a person who loves new things”, WASAMON perfectly sums up the people of Kumamoto, an inquisitive population, fascinated by innovation. That being said, it is quiet difficult to convey an accurate understanding of the concept “a person who loves new things”. What exactly do we mean by “new”? Or “love” for that matter. Ok, we can hear all you Manga fans out there, shouting “you’re a Manga webmagazine! Show it! Don’t explain it!!” Hear you we have, so here’s a brand, spanking new article, aimed at helping you understand the concept of “WASAMON” through emotion! In this series, we’ll be introducing you to some intriguing examples and legends of “WASAMON”, directly from the people of Kumamoto themselves, to improve your manga creating skills!
A Chronicle of Pioneers: “Pedestrian Scramble”
To kick off the series, we’ll be looking at the “Pedestrian Scramble (A crossroad that temporarily stops all vehicular traffic, allowing pedestrians to move in all directions for a short amount of time)”. If “Mt. Fuji” and the Temples and Shrines of Kyoto & Nara represent traditional Japan, then the bustling, fast paced thoroughfare of Shibuya’s Pedestrian Scramble, or Shibuya Crossing, most definitely embodies modern Japan. Yes, I’m, talking about Tokyo’s enormous pedestrian crossing, enclosed by towering, modern buildings, huge screens blasting out advertisements, that green, vintage rail carriage and the iconic statue of Hachiko (Japan’s loyalist dog). Most visitors admit to being overwhelmed by this monstrous human fortress, made famous by the movie “Lost in Translation” and a whole host of manga and anime, but it’s a must on any tourist’s schedule, including our Master Class trips, where at least one person requests a visit! But did you know, the idea of this Urban Monster was first thought up in Kumamoto? Back in 1968 (or was it 1969?), the very first “pedestal scramble” in Japan was first built in Kokai, Chuo-ku in Kumamoto City. Located within close proximity to Kumamoto University and a popular shopping hub, Kokai was a notorious hotspot for traffic jams. Exasperated, the Kumamoto Police searched for a solution when genius struck! Inspired by “Fifth Avenue” in New York city, they decided to introduce a new concept, an innovative pedestrian crossing, thereby alleviating the ever mounting congestion.
“Shibuya scramble” came to life in 1973, less than five years later. Though younger than it’s Kumamoto counterpart, “Shibuya Crossing” certainly makes up in numbers, with an estimated 3000 people crossing it every 5 minutes! That’s 3000 people, rushing along under the glare of neon every time a green signal flashes. Intrigued by this crossing rivalry, our team counted the people crossing in Kumamoto, which was…19! Not even 1% of Shibuya Scramble!! The Kokai Scramble may not be as famous as Shibuya’s, or as busy, but it was Japan’s first. A fact the innovation seekers of Kumamoto are, quite rightly, immensely proud of. More than just a crossing, this pioneering, little space in Kumamoto has a big place in the hearts of the locals. After all, this is the home of “WASAMON”. Penmaru:That’s sooooo cool!! I had no idea that Japan’s most famous tourist spot had it’s roots in Kumamoto! It seems there are more surprises to come… don’t you think so, Shihan!?Shihan:Yes. I can feel the “WASAMON” spirit of the Kumamoto people, especially in the way the police looked to New York for a solution. I imagine the guy thought, “We should look to the wider world, to learn more”… “Cool” indeed! And thus, the first legend “WASAMON” has been told on the SMAC!’s page. What kind of “WASAMON” will come next!? Read the next episode to find out! Did you feel the spirit of WASAMON from the people in Kumamoto? If you did, share this article with your friends, and spread the coolness! If you didn’t, tweet/message Mayu so that she can work harder next time! Don’t forget to follow her on Twitter/Facebook, too!Featured Image: “Shibuya” by Candida.Performa / licensed under CC BY 2.0 Kakimoji SOS – 03 LET’S “GOGOGO” INTO ACTION
The night is in the grip of a violent thunderstorm. Clutching your teddy bear in terror, you almost jump out of your skin as a bolt of lightening rips open the ground, just feet from your house. With your big fight with the World’s Greatest Fighter just hours away, sleep would be elusive on the quietest of nights. But this night is charged with an electric atmosphere, making sleep impossible, enveloping the room with… “GOGOGOGOGO!” The day of the Big Fight finally dawns. You and your fellow opponent approach the fighting ground as the frenzied crowd scream out your names. The deafening roar swirls around the stadium like a bird-of-prey in flight, searching you out, stalking your every step, as you draw ever closer to your destiny… “GO GO GO GO!”
GO! THE MATCH BEGINS!
…But, there’s something wrong…your opponent is a GIANT, his presence twisting the very air around you! The terror of the previous night begins to swallow you up. This giant’s towering presence alone reduces you to a quivering mess, making you stagger back in… “GOGOGOGO!!! Hello, my NOISY friends! This week’s article will bring you directly to the action (actually, I hope I already did that, with my nail biting intro!), allowing us to analyze a very special Kakimoji. One that was specifically requested by our beloved SMAC! mascot, Penmaru…
“Enrico, when are you going to talk about the sound of action…GOGOGOGOGO?!”
In Japanese, it’s possible to know EVERYTHING about a particular character from their name alone. For example, names beginning with the letter ‘G’ will involve a guttural sound emanating from the throat when pronounced, making a very strong, tough and solid sound. Take the iconic characters, Goku, Gundam and Godzilla. They not only share names beginning with the letter ‘G’, they also happen to be the strongest in their own, respective world. Whether it’s a man, gigantic power suit or Kaiju! Do you think this is pure coincidence? How do you think this power is expressed by Kakimoji? With the sound of action or course: “GOGOGO!!!” (Editor’s note: if you can read Japanese, I strongly suggest the book Kaiju no na ha naze Ga-Gi-Gu-Ge-Go na no ka ISBN: 978-4106100789 – Litt. Why Kaiju’s names start with Ga Gi Gu Ge Go?) So, how did you FEEL when you soaked up that pre-fighting scene? How do you FEEL by look at their stance and posture with their auras surrounding all the scene? Do you the air that brings war and destruction also bring on the Kakimoji “GOGOGO”?! Now try to “read” the Kakimoji flowing through the panel, giving the scene an incredible sense of action: prepare your throat for a second and chant “GO GO GO GO”. Can you sense it?! Can you feel an atmosphere of expectant dread?! This is the power of manga! You’ve just proved that words on a printed page, here, Kichijoji, Japan can be understood and felt around the world, as it was originally intended! …sorry, but I have to say it again…AREN’T KAKIMOJI AMAZING?!?! But what does this word mean? Let’s keep in mind the importance of the letter G at the beginning of certain words, while we focus on how this sound has been categorized, making this, perhaps one of the most famous onomatopoeia (Kakimoji) in manga. When we editors at SMAC! have any doubts, we always ask to our Editor-in-Chief, Mocchi san…and this is what he has top say about this particular Kakimoji: There’s no definite origin of the “GOGOGO” Kakimoji. It could have its roots in the Kakimoji “GOROGORO”, the sound of clouds before releasing thunder, or maybe the sound of a traditional Chinese gong when rung, “GON GON”. In both cases, they produce an atmosphere of expectation, building up excitement and promising an incredibly entertaining scene!
↓↓ Clouds “GOROGOROGORO” Kakimoji’s example! ↓↓
Thank you, Mocchi san!
I can finally see the roots of “GOGOGO”! Now let’s take a look at the following scene, with a great gong being beaten just before battle…
“GOOOON!”
This panel TALKS for itself, effectively showing the resounding power of the Kakimoji used. Take a look! The first and last “letters” are written bigger than the rest, letting the reader focus mostly on those two letters. The “OOOO” part is then perceived as an echo! In this panel, time stops as the Kakimoji expands in “time” to generate a sound effect! The direct ACTION of the original Kakimoji, “GON” and the echoed REACTION to signify the passing of time. ACTION AND REACTION IN THE SAME KAKIMOJI! OH HOW MUCH I LOVE THEM!
Penmaru says: I LOVE KAKIMOJI TOO! Thank you Enrico, for explaining all the wonders of the Kakimoji “GOGOGO”! But now that you’ve talked about the sound of nature, like storms and clouds in building up tension, I see there are subtle differences in the Kakimoji itself… Are you telling me that there are varying degrees in each Kakimoji?! 💕
Ahahah, Penmaru, you are a wise scholar! Yes, there are different Kakimoji classifications, depending on what they express. Do you want to know more about these, too? Well, see you next week then! CIAO!FOLLOW ME: Twitter – @kenrico7 Facebook – Enrico Croce SmacBanner picture background photo by Courtney Collison REPORT: KUMAMOTO International MANGA Fes. 2017
The eagerly awaited 2nd “KUMAMOTO International MANGA Fes” will kick off on September 12~17, so here’s the lowdown on what to expect! A celebration of manga, this exclusive manga festival will feature lectures, workshops, a Manga exhibition, “in conversations” with professional Japanese mangaka and the much coveted manga award ceremony for winners of this special round. The 2018 Fes promises to be the biggest and best yet! To give you a taster of the how much fun “KUMAMOTO International MANGA Fes” is, we’ve decided to write up this report of the unforgettable events from the last year’s manga extravaganza. Enjoy!! (さらに…) The Accidental Gaijin: #3 A Frosty Ambition
Being an Accidental Gaijin and working in Japanese manga, requires a hearty embrace of the unknown. Not only with swotting up on the countless (and I mean countless) manga titles in circulation, but in gaining an in-depth understanding of the very essence of what makes a story. As a result, I’ve filled every precious scrap of spare time, fastidiously glued to manga in an effort to deconstruct stories, learn what makes a good protagonist and theorize how it all flows together in harmony.
So when it was decided that a sacred Saturday would be allocated to the PyeongChang, Winter Olympics 2018, I immediately balked at the idea! Now I’m no fan of sport at the best of times, but watching, albeit impressive athletes stumble around in the snow when I had far more important things to do was absurd. Unbeknownst to me, I was about to be exposed to a Japanese, sporting obsession. Not baseball or football (that’s soccer to you heathens), nor even Judo. I’m talking about figure skating, with golden boy Yuzuru Hanyū, taking centre stage in the hearts of a the Japanese public.
Because of HUGE copyright issues with publishing photos of Yuzuru Hanyū, here’s a 1923 pic of figure skaters…could you make a story from this photo? Flickr/Special Collections Toronto Public Library
Intrigued by this devotion, I decided to delve deeper into the life of this young olympian…if anything to excuse myself from having to sit through the performance in real time. What can I say? I love research! Hanyū’s life story gripped me instantly. A career with as many ups as downs, namely an inordinate amount of injuries, this native of Sendai was fully absorbed in a practice session, just as the devastating earthquake and tsunami of 2011 descended on his hometown. Undaunted, Hanyū not only got back into his training regime as soon as possible, but spearheaded a relief fund that raised incredible sums of money for the victims of his home prefecture.
The damage caused by devastating earthquake and tsunami of 2011, in Hanyū’s Miyagi Prefecture, is still felt to this day. Flickr/Tex Texin
It doesn’t stop there either! During the 2014 China Cup, this unstoppable trooper suffered a severe concussion from a nasty collision during his warm up session. Anyone else would tap out of the competition, curl up on the sofa clutching our Winnie Pooh bear and chalk it up to bad timing, but not Hanyū! Bandaged and bleeding, he controversially insisted on skating, and though he spectacularly crashed onto the ice five times during his performance, he staggered away with a silver medal!
With my opinion of this sport, and it’s athletes changed for the better, I focused my eyes on the screen to watch this ice-skating “superman” in action. Literarily gripping the edge of my seat as he finished with a final flourish to the beat of traditional, Japanese music, a shower of Winnie Pooh bears covered the rink. Incidentally, Hanyū is obsessed with the whimsical bear from the “Hundred Acre Wood”, a fact his legions of fans have gripped onto with glee! I was astounded by his performance, especially thanks to the quick research I undertook.
The dedication and pain of round the clock practice, the obstacles he faces trying to fit in a normal life, the excitement of a tournament, the euphoria in victory and crushing emotion in defeat were all presentYuzuru Hanyū’s young life. Then it hit me, this guy’s life, triumphs and failures included, reads like a manga! I was studying all along, with the ingredients of manga, playing out in front of my very eyes.
Stories can be found in the least likely of places. Flickr/Julia
As much as I love reading manga, I now know that it doesn’t have all the answers. A vital part in learning to how to create an entertaining protagonist, how to weave a story and how to link it all together is literally all around us. Buying a carton of milk, taking a walk in the park or even competing in international ice skating competitions all have the potential to birth a protagonist and a story. Like a hastily drawn doodle, every scrap of experience is worth its weight in gold, because life itself is a manga, patiently waiting for a mangaka’s G-pen.
See you next week! Chris
Penmaru says…
I never realized that stories could be found everywhere!! I’ll definitely make sure to carry a notepad and pen wherever I go from now now. Thanks Chris!
SMA8 Interview #18 – Walther Romualdo (Honourable Mention Award Winner) How the heck do you panel a page?! Honorable Mention Award winner, Walther Romualdo may not have all the answers, but he’s certainly on the way to solving it! He talks to us today about his first taste of manga, his influences and his approach to solving that panelling conundrum! Hi Walther! Hello! ABOUT YOU
“I really like experiencing entertaining stories…”
Where did you grow up? City or Rural? Anything the world should know about it?I’ve lived all my life in the city of Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais State. It’s a big city, probably the third or fourth biggest city in Brazil. Minas Gerais is a state full of natural beauty, with mountains, waterfalls and caves. Perfect creative environment!If a friend from the SMAC!ommunity visited you for a sightseeing trip, where would you take them?I would take any willing member of the SMACommunity to Israel’s Pinheiro Square (popularly known as Pope’s Square). It’s one of our highest vantage points, with spectacular views across the city. Walking the streets, you’ll get a completely different experience, but I can’t get enough of that view from Pinheiro Square. Takes my breath away every time!What is a typical day in your life like?I wake up, grab a quick breakfast and then set off to spend the morning working at an automotive parts store. I then rush to my university in the afternoon and hit the books or take a class. My free time is then filled with reading manga, books or watching movies, listening to music or gaming.So you’re a movie fan?What’s are your favorite movie? Or music and games for that matter… I love the Breakfast Club! It was some wonderful characters, who you get to more better and better as the film plays. I also watch a lot of Hitchcock movies, like Frenzy, Vertigo, The Birds. He really knows how to build suspense! For music, I mainly listen to movie soundtracks and anime themes, perfect for making manga! I listen to a lot of manga themes podcasts to keep me up-to-date, such as Manga ao Quadrado and Nerdcast. As for gaming, I cannot get enough of Mario Kart. It never gets old! I’m also a big fan of the Final Fantasy and Mega Man X franchises.
Look at all the detail put on drawing the rain and the waves!
What do you like to do when you’re not drawing manga?I really like experiencing entertaining stories, regardless of the format. Could be books, manga, movies or radio plays, as long as it’s entertaining, I’m hooked! It’s also very useful for making manga is we can see how characters grow. I also like to watch sports, like soccer and basketball, which helps to clear my mind!ABOUT MANGA
” The scope of manga constantly amazes me too”
What attracted you to manga? The way manga is present attracted me greatly. Having read a lot of American comic books, so was surprised by rhythm and flow of manga. Both are very different, especially as manga is very smooth and pleasant to read. The scope of manga constantly amazes me too! Whatever hobby you enjoy, there will be a manga about it. Manga is so versatile, it’s an amazing medium to work in. Why is manga important to you? That is a difficult question! Manga has played a huge part in my life, in many different ways, mainly in the direction it’s taking. When I was a kid, I vividly remember watching the anime of Saint Seiya, then playing the game. From there, I was hooked, leading to me hunting for more manga and anime. As a teenager, my transition to manga fan was complete, and I made the decision to take a drawing course to help me make my own manga. This also played a part in my university course choice too, so you could say manga has been the most important influence in my life. Taking that course had a profound effect on my life, not only in gaining the skills I needed to develop, but in meeting a group of fantastic manga fans I’m still friends with to this day. Was there an artist or story that inspired you to become a manga creator?The works of Ken Akamatsu, Takehiko Inoue, Osmar de Carvalho, Necro, Ronaldo Felipe and Tamashii have been, and continue to be a big influence to me. After reading Love Hina by Ken Akamatsu, I wanted to make stories that reflect the same hilarious moments. Slam Dunk by Takehiko Inoue is the most exciting manga I’ve ever read. My hands were shaking on my first reading, it was like watching a real basketball game! Professional Japanese mangaka seem so unreachable that it actually scares me a little. So seeing my friends making manga, even though we all struggle sometimes, makes me believe I can succeed in my dream of becoming a professional. Is manga popular in your country?It is, especially Dragon Ball, Saint Seya and Naruto. But there is also a lot of ignorance when it comes to manga. Many people here dismiss manga, believing it’s solely for kids. These people unknowingly fail to see how amazingly versatile manga is! I’m sure they would be shocked to learn that Naruto is as much a manga as the more adult themed Kokou no Hito, Oyasumi Punpun, Helter Skelter and Takemitsuzamurai. It’s as broad as saying “I like American movies”.
He is always checking the SMA website for news! Thank you ! 🙂
What kind of environment do you work in when you’re drawing manga?Most of the time I’m making manga in my bedroom. It’s quiet, but I use sound dampers or listen to podcasts to help me focus more. Though I often use downtown at work or university to sneak in some manga making too! What challenges do you face creating manga? Challenges are found throughout the entire manga making process. The biggest for me is the decision making when creating storyboards or the ‘name’. Add or take away a panel, deciding on camera angles, choosing scenes, ordering the series of events, each decision greatly affects the whole reading experience. They dictate how you want your story will play out.How do you overcome these challenges?I just keep redrawing the names an absurd number of times until I feel satisfied! I then gather them all together and evaluate each one against the others to see which works best. When I’m finally satisfied, I’ll tell myself “Ok, you’ve done your best..now let’s draw!” I only show my work at this stage to people who aren’t used to reading manga so I can check is the story is easy to follow. ABOUT THE SMA8
“… that is really the power of manga, anything can happen”
How did you find out about SMA? The first time I heard about this contest was just after Ichirou’s SMA2 victory. More and more Brazillian artists seemed to be winning prizes, which made me curious. What were your thoughts on the theme? At first I thought it was a narrow subject. I thought it had to be a sports story like most of the people probably did. But I understood that I just needed a story involving a dispute. And the competition in the story needs to potentialize the moment of fair play and not be an excuse for fair play. Especially now looking at the other entries, I was amazed by how different everyone’s interpretation of the theme was, that is really the power of manga, anything can happen.At first, I thought it was too narrow a subject. Like most people, I immediately thought it had to be a sports story, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized I needed to involve a “dispute”. The competition in the story needed to embody a moment of “fair play”, rather than an excuse for “fair play”. What was the inspiration Just a Minute?There wasn’t any specific inspiration. I just thought about a situation involving a boat in rough seas and the story just developed from there. I really enjoy funny and silly stories, especially creating them! The manga’s that influenced the tone of the story was Ranma 1/2 by Rumiko Takahashi, Sakigake!! Kuromati Kōkō by Eiji Nonaka and Sakamoto Desu ga by Nami Sano.
Original line art from Just a minute! Walther like to improve each page as much as he can!
How long did it take you to complete?It took about a month to come up with the concert, then I concluded the storyboards in a couple of weeks. Two weeks to draw up the pages, plus adding the screen and concerts. How did your family react to your award?My family were very happy for, though a little subdued as they don’t fully understand what manga is, or how big an experience it was for me.Did the entry fulfill your expectations?Easily exceeded my expectations!! I’m an inexperienced storyteller and only started drawing manga relatively recently so I was astounded at winning an award. I thought it would take a lot longer, and many submissions to get an honorable mention! What are you working on at the moment?I’m currently working with a classmate on an animation short for university. Where do you see your future career in manga? Ultimately, I hope to have a career in manga. For now, I’ll continue studying, drawing and producing manga until I make better and better stories. Anything you’d like to shout to the SMAC!ommunity?Thanks for everything. It is an honor for me to have my work honorably mentioned. In recent years, I’ve read many excellent entries for SMA, so it means a lot to me to have a manga of my own in there. I hope to read more and more silent mangas from these fantastic artists.Thank you Walther.Deciding on the best layout, camera angles Much like a move director, the layout of a scene, or manga page can make or a break a story in the eyes of its creator, so we fully understand the challenges Walther has with this all important factor. Walther is solving these challenges in the best way possible, practice, practice, practice! With the knowledge gained from his trial and error approach, we are confident Walther will soon develop an expert eye and make his manga an enjoyable to see, as to read. SMAC!ommunity, do you have a creative itch you’re dying to scratch? Are you overflowing with story ideas? If yes, then start drawing for SMA9 round TODAY!! Do you want to join the world’s biggest manga community? Start drawing for the SMA9 round TODAY!SMA9 is the first time we’ve offered THREE themes to choose from! If you feel like a challenge, why not pick two, or all three themes! Make manga your language too! You have until March 31st, 2018 to say “HELLO” to your new friends! Click the banner for more details on how to enter… Twitter – @SmacViVi Facebook – Vivi Fabbri Smac Banner photo by Prefeitura de Belo Horizont Manga Nutcracker #3 – Arte
Welcome again to the Manga Nutcracker! With Vivi the nutcracker! This article is all about cracking open a manga, finding their essence and get to their soul! Manga lovers, artists, creators, passerby…. this series is all knowing different stories and exploring new worlds! Now let’s go to this week cracking! Crack 3 !
“An angry girl dreams of becoming an artist, while fighting against a society stacked against her!”
16th century, Renaissance Florence. Our protagonist, Arteis a young girl of noble birth who harbors an unbreakable-will in these turbulent times. In a world, rife with discrimination against women, Arte dreams of becoming a painter, thereby breaking this historical glass ceiling!Feeling rejected by her family’s disapproval of this dream, Arte goes in search of an artist that will accept her as an apprentice. After being turn down by everyone for the simple reason of being a woman, Arte, in a fit of anger, cuts her hair to prove how serious she is! Before she going as far as to chop off her own breasts, a passerby, Leo, luckily stops her!It turns out that Leo is actually a professional painter. Pushed by the peer pressure from the town’s people, Leo reluctantly accepts Arte as his apprentice. Believing that she is just a spoiled rich girl who draws as a hobby, Leo gives Arte a series of tasks to test her. However Arte’s persistence and attitude prove his suspicions wrong! Realizing her resolve, Leo accepts Arte as his apprentice.
Arte’s journey keeps going and its all worth it!
One step closer to her dream, Arte starts working with Leo in his atelier. She is able to take her first step on her journey to becoming an artist, while facing many obstacles that will challenge, not only her skills but also her ideals. Not matter how difficult the situation is Arte doesn’t take any shortcuts. Aiming to be viewed equal to a man, Arte’s pride and determination are visually shown when she refuses any type of gentleman act towards her.You would think that this highly educated girl’s love of art is what motivates her. However, rejection seems to be the driving force for Arte’s perseverance! The more she is rejected, the harder she strives, creating fuel for her motivation in the form of anger.Her anger towards the society that constrains her, is what drives this brave girl forward. Tired of the limitations society put her because of her gender, her ultimate goal is to gain independence and support herself without the need of any man!
In this scene Arte decides to fix her dress and carry the heavy cart by herself, a move that shows her resolve to fight back, express beautifully on her expression and unladylike word choice. 🙂
True to her namesake, Arte’s path is filled with a series of rejections, self doubt and criticism, until finally, her path gives way to acceptance, recognition and self-worth. Its thanks to these challenges, that worthy “Arte” will be born.
Arte’s unexpected solutions to these problems, along with her way of overcoming the trials before her is the jewel at the core of this manga. Compared to the previous article’s protagonist, Arte’s straight forward personality was much easier to crack. She is genuine and self determined, successfully charming the hearts of the readers with her honesty and stubbornness.The way she expresses her frustration in a patriarchal society stacked against her, with unbridled anger, is what makes Arte deeply relatable. Do you agree with my nutcracking of “Arte”? What was your favorite retaliation from Arte during her trials?Would love to discuss more with you about this amazing character and story!For more follow me up on twitter with the #mangacracker. Twitter – @SmacViVi Facebook – Vivi Fabbri Smac SMAC! MANGA DOJO #3 – "Draw SILENT MANGA!" <Characters>Penmaru Is a ninja dog who dreams of becoming the greatest manga creator in the animal world. To help achieve his dream, Mocchi gives him a mission… “Learn how to create manga at the Manga Dojo.”
He’s not good at staying still. “Shihan” Manga Master The master of the dojo and Penmaru’s tutor in the ways of manga. An experienced editor who had worked in the manga industry for over 30 years.
He’s not good at cleaning up the room. <Previously in MANGA DOJO…> “The essence of manga is a doodle!”
The words from “the god of manga” Osamu Tezuka sensei strongly inspired Penmaru.
With his enthusiasm on fire, Penmaru starts drawing many many pieces, but…?
Ep. 3 “If you wanna improve, draw SILENT MANGA!”
(さらに…) SMA8 Interview #17 – REDJET (Honourable Mention Award Winner)
The need for speed is strong for Honourable Mention Award winner RedJet. The Italian creator abandoned a career with a respected tire manufacturer to hurtle towards his dreams of becoming a professional Mangaka. A journey that brought him to the very home of manga itself, Japan! RedJet talks to us about the importance of healthy rivalries, challenging yourself and Italy’s greatest, chocolatey export!
ABOUT YOU
“I was instantly hooked and hungry for more!”
The city of Turin, a mere stone’s throw from where REDJET grew up. Flickr/Federico Feroldi
Hello RedJet! Is this your first international interview?
Yes, it is!
Why RedJet?
My pen-name doesn’t have any particular meaning, but it does give me a strong sensation. It’s the combination of the two words that I’m attached to; “Red” is my favorite color, and “Jet” gives me a sense of speed and velocity. Both are a constant element in my manga-life, especially when I’m battling deadlines and commissions.
When did you come up with your pen-name?
I chose the name when I decided to become a professional manga creator, back in 2015. At that time, I was working for a tire manufacturer so the promise of speed was all around me! The tire is round, as is the manga narrative in its construction. I like the continuity, from one career to the next.
Is manga popular in your home town?
I live in Busch, a little city close to Turin. With a population of only 800 people, you soon realize that manga isn’t a part of most peoples lives. In fact, even having a conversation about manga is very hard to do here.
So, when did you have your first encounter with manga?
I drew my first comic strip when I 6, though I didn’t know it was a yonkoma back then! To me, it was just a series of drawings that told a story. I saw my first manga at school, when some friends brought them into class. I was instantly hooked and hungry for more! Dragonball was very popular in Italy at that time, and thanks to both the anime and the manga, I started to understand how manga is made.
And what about the American comics?
Italy has a long comic book tradition, including Disney stories! I grew up with Topolino (Mickey Mouse) and Paperino (Donald Duck), which have been published in Italy since the 1930’s. My very first attempt at making manga were heavily influenced by these Disney comics.
If a friend from the SMAC!ommunity visited you, where would you take them?
As I live close to the Nutella factory, I’d invite everyone to see how Italy’s most famous food is made…well, after pizza and pasta of course.
ABOUT MANGA
“I was reborn as a manga artist!”
What’s a typical day for RedJet?
I wake at 9:30, and after a quick breakfast, I plunge straight into drawing, including commissions, manga for SMA and work for my French publisher. Around 12, I have lunch and jump back into drawing until evening. After dinner, it’s none-stop drawing till bedtime!
Wow! How do you relax between one drawing and the next?
I draw! This is my hobby and my job, so I can work while I relax!
About the French publisher, what kind of work do they publish and how did you begin collaborating with them?
They publish manga, comic books and BD, but they focus primarily on manga. They approached me after seeing my SMA entries and asked if I’d like to collaborate with them. I created a manga called Space Duck RG for them, my very first Shonen manga!
Do you listen to music when you create manga?
I always need background noise when I create manga, either movies or music. Creating manga can be lonely so having come company in the form of noise helps me relax into my work. Music is also a source of inspiration! I like rock, pop, drum and base, J-pop, K-pop and classical music. In fact, I’m working on my SMA9 entry while listening to Bolero at the moment.
What do you like to do when you’re not drawing manga?
I love gaming! Metal Gear Solid and Pokemon are my favorites. Playing video games allow me to improve my creativity and provide a good source of inspiration.
Computer games, including Metal Gear Solid has proven a huge source of inspiration for REDJET.
So manga is always on your mind, even during your free time. Is it safe to say manga is your best friend?
Yes, for sure. Manga is a huge part of my life. Even when I was working at the tire company, I always had a manga to hand.
Which manga were you most inspired by?
Gon, by Masashi Tanaka, is my current inspiration when creating Silent Manga entries as I love the simplicity of the concept. My style is heavily influenced by Oda sensei’s masterpiece One Piece. The manga that biggest impression on me, and the one that made me want to become a professional manga artist was Bakuman.
Why Bakuman?
It’s a manga that works on different levels. As a child, I loved the story itself, about how to become a manga creator, and as an adult, I liked how the everyday life of a mangaka can be portrayed in a manga.
What kind of environment do you work?
I’m both an analog and digital person, though I do love working with traditional tools. When I visited Japan with my girlfriend, I bought a lot of tools, from pens and brushes! Luckily, my girlfriend speaks Japanese so it was easy to navigate. She’s an amazing polymer clay modeler!
REDJET’s SMA5 character, brought to life by his girlfriend
So tell us more about this Japanese trip!
I was reborn as a manga artist! So when I left my previous job, I decided to visit the country where manga was born. We were there for a long time, spending time in the Kansai region, Kyoto, Osaka and Nara, where we visited many historical sites. We then focused our trip in Tokyo, where I managed to visit the Shueisha offices, the publisher of Shonen Jump!
How did you manage to visit the Shonen Jump office?!
My friend’s Japanese wife managed to arrange the visit. Thanks to her, I got the chance to speak to a Shonen Jump editor, with her as interpreter. Which was an incredibly rewarding experience! We spent around 2 hours discussing manga, how Shonen Jump operate and talked about my own work, identifying my weak and strong points.
Very useful information indeed! When challenges do you face when you create manga?
I have two, big challenges a year…SMA rounds!! The other major challenge to make Italian readers aware of my work. If you’re not a huge, international star, you won’t be noticed in Italy so my constant, daily challenge is to take on the Italian market, with SMA as my strongest ally!
How do you overcome these challenges?
By joining the SMAC!ommunity! Just being involved in this competition can help improve yourself. I know a lot of people who won’t take part in SMA because they are afraid of failing, but for me, even in failure we can learn and build up courage. It’s important to keep challenging yourself, pitting yourself against others. My favorite SMA creator is Ichirou, and though I admire his work, I see him as a rival. Salvatore is also a great creator, a friend and a rival!
Where the magic happens, within red walls of course.
ABOUT SMA8
“[working with editors is] an amazing example teamwork!”
What was the reaction of your friends and family when you won the award?
My family don’t know about my international manga work, as I we don’t really discuss it, other than telling them that I’ve entered a competition. For SMA8, my girlfriend was the most unsatisfied with the result. I was a little downcast too, but I also see it as a new challenge, even if I have so many commissions to get through! (laughs)
What was your reaction to the theme? Like always, when a new SMA theme comes out, I try to figure out the best way to represent it in a unique way. I experiment and try to do things differently.
Did you utilize yonkoma in the development stages? What was your inspiration?
There wasn’t any particular inspiration. Actually, I’ve only now started to create yonkomas thanks to the “Fair Play” theme. Initially, the story was more dramatic and serious, but thanks to the support and advice from the SMAC! editorial team, I lowered the tone and took a more comedic direction, making my characters reactions more and more extreme!
How was it working with Japanese manga editors?
This was my very first collaboration with Japanese manga editors. I learned how to work on the character’s emotions and feelings (especially when I create a silent manga) by utilizing their advice and suggestions. It’s an amazing example teamwork!
How long did it take you to complete and you were satisfied with it?
It took me around 2 months to find the right yonkoma and 2 weeks to complete the manga once the concept was finalized. The story makes, and I feel it flows well so I was very satisfied.
THE FUTURE
“Remember that SMA is just the beginning!”
What are you working on at the moment?
I’m working on a new story for the French editor, commissions and my SMA9 entries. Also, as always, provide my social media followers daily illustrations!
Anything you’d like to shout to the SMAC!ommunity?
Join SMA! Even if I’ve already said that, I really want you understand! Remember that SMA is just the beginning! The professional life of a manga creators awaits you after gaining essential support from SMAC! And Coamix!
Thank you RedJet!
Like the best Shonen manga, rivalry and friendship can go a long way to improve yourself! We hope Redjet continues down his path of self improvement, in making manga that captures the hearts of everyone in the SMAC!ommunity.
SMAC!ommunity, do you have a creative itch you’re dying to scratch? Are you overflowing with story ideas? If yes, then start drawing for SMA9 round TODAY!!
Do you want to join the world’s biggest manga community? Start drawing for the SMA9 round TODAY!
SMA9 is the first time we’ve offered THREE themes to choose from! If you feel like a challenge, why not pick two, or all three themes!
Make manga your language too! You have until March 31st, 2018 to say “HELLO” to your new friends! Click the banner for more details on how to enter…
Banner photo by Fulvio Spada SMAC! Announces FREE trip to JAPAN to attend exclusive MANGA CAMP!!
SILENT MANGA AUDITION® Committee is inviting YOU to Japan for a spectacular, FREE Manga extravaganza!! Not even young manga creators in Japan have it this good!!!
“Manga Master’s Camp KUMAMOTO 2018” will be the sixth event held by SILENT MANGA AUDITION® (SMA), where the SMA Committee invite manga creators from around the world to Japan, to not only cerebrate manga, but to learn the joys of professional manga creation from the professionals! This year, chosen winners from SMA7, SMA8, SMA9 and the SMA-EX3 “Kumamoto Round” will be invited to attend this incredible event.
For the last 3 years, the SMA committee has been inviting award winners from the world’s biggest manga competition to Japan, where they experienced a syllabus of hands-on, engaging lectures focusing on how professional manga is created, distributed and enjoyed by the readers.
In 2018, the Manga Creative Bootcamp sessions will include activities that cover the whole spectrum of “creating manga”. From the business of manga to the fundamental skills of making good manga, these engaging lectures are to be delivered by several highly successful, experienced and respected manga creators, including Tsukasa Hojo sensei of the City Hunter series. More big names to be confirmed!
These amazing activities won’t stop there, either! Ever wanted to relive those unforgettable moments found in your favorite manga?? From “Suika-wari (Watermelon splitting)” to “Nagashi Soumen (catching floating noodles with chopsticks!)”, attendees to this exclusive Manga Camp will experience a whole host of traditional Japanese autumn festivities as seen in countless manga and anime from Japan. Camp fires, BBQ’s, fish catching and Anime Karaoke, moment under the traditional summer fireworks will make YOU the star of your own manga adventure!
So, wanna have a ball in Kumamoto? All you need to do is get drawing and send your Silent Manga to us!
The camp will be held over 3 days, with additional days for travel and a sightseeing tour of Tokyo. Totalling to around 7-10 days full of manga action.
Multiple entries are welcome and actively encouraged.
See you in Japan!
Japan is so much fun!
Kamishikimi-Kumanoza Shrine in winter…
A summer to remember!!
Traditional events await you 😉
“Manga Master’s Camp KUMAMOTO 2018” will be held in September. Details TBA over all our media channels. So don’t miss it!! This is an invitation-only event, chosen winners will receive a FREE ticket, including their trip to Japan.
Penmaru Is a ninja dog who dreams of becoming the greatest manga creator in the animal world. To help achieve his dream, Mocchi gives him a mission… “Learn how to create manga at the Manga Dojo.” His favorite food is Ramen. 
There’s no definite origin of the “GOGOGO” Kakimoji. It could have its roots in the Kakimoji “GOROGORO”, the sound of clouds before releasing thunder, or maybe the sound of a traditional Chinese gong when rung, “GON GON”. In both cases, they produce an atmosphere of expectation, building up excitement and promising an incredibly entertaining scene! 
