PROFILE:
Name: Heitor Amatsu
Age: 22
Country: Brazil
Favorite manga: 20th Century Boys
Favorite movie: Shrek 2
Favorite quote: “Whenever you go through a bad time, tell yourself… your dream will come true.”
“Every manga I work on, I learn something new…”1. How does it feel to win a SILENT MANGA AUDITION® award?
It feels like my efforts are taking me somewhere! When I was younger, I never thought I’d be able to get noticed outside of my country and win a Silent Manga award, that’s a very big statement for me.
2. What were your first impressions of the theme?
I was very excited, but at the same time I was afraid. It was a strong and simple theme, so I was afraid to be weak and/or too complex. But by being calm, I was able to enjoy the theme as well.
3. What was the inspiration behind your winning work?
The idea came up in a conversation with my girlfriend. We remembered funny situations in our lives and one of them was an experience with a bus. Listening to the stories from other friends on the subject, I was able to develop this idea.
4. What challenges did you face making your manga? How did you overcome them?
I had a hard time choosing ideas for the story, there were so many! None of them really caught my attention, so I had to take some of the references from several other people.
5. What did you learn from making your manga? Did you pick up any new skills or techniques?
Every manga I work on, I learn something new. In this case it was developing tension and expectation. It was also fun to experience action-packed scenes and character expressions.
6. How important is entering the SILENT MANGA AUDITION® in relation to your professional goals?
It is a big step to participate, especially being a world-wide pessimist and gain this recognition! Many new opportunities arise, both for work and for learning, and this is fantastic. I am always willing to improve my skills!
7. What advice would you give to people entering the SILENT MANGA AUDITION®?
Be direct and fun. Make stories that people will laugh or thrill at, not just for you. Show your friends or family, if they understand and like your message, it’s already a big step. Also, and even more importantly, do not give up!
Thanks Heitor! Check Heitor’s manga pages…