For the 10th edition of Japan Matsuri, we will be joined by two icons of Japanese animation: director Seiji Mizushima and animation master Takahiro Yoshimastu.
The masters will conduct a free workshop where they will unveil the secrets of Japanese animation and drawing techniques on Saturday at 2:45 PM. Additionally, there will be a conference and a drawing demonstration on the stage at 5:15 PM, as well as a free autograph session with exclusive illustrations on Sunday, September 3rd, at 2:00 PM.
Seiji Mizushima
Takahiro Yoshimatsu
Seiji Mizushima is a renowned Japanese director, famous for directing highly successful anime series such as Shaman King, Fullmetal Alchemist, Mobile Suit Gundam 00, Un-Go, and Concrete Revolution. He was born on January 28, 1966 in Fuchū, Tokyo, and from a young age, Mizushima displayed a natural passion for animation.
After graduating from Tokyo Designer Gakuin College (now Tokyo Net Wave), Mizushima began his career at Tokyo Animation Film. There, he had the opportunity to study under the guidance of cinematographer Masahiro Kunagai, refining his skills in the field of animation. Later on, he embarked on a new challenge by joining Sunrise Studio as a production assistant, with the ambitious goal of becoming an established director.
Following his departure from Sunrise, Mizushima devoted all his energy to creating animated sequences for video games, but his true passion always resided in animation. This led him to make a decision to fully dedicate himself to this art form. In 1998, he made his directorial debut with the anime series Generator Gawl, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career that would produce beloved and highly acclaimed projects worldwide.
In 2011, Mizushima had the opportunity to serve as a member of the selection and evaluation committee for the “Young Animator Training Project 2011,” an initiative organized by the Japanese Animation Creators Association. This experience enabled him to contribute to the discovery and development of young talents in the field of Japanese animation.
With his unique style and unwavering commitment to animation, Seiji Mizushima has left an indelible mark on the Japanese anime industry. His works have garnered significant recognition, including the prestigious Mainichi Film Award for Best Animated Film for Fullmetal Alchemist the Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa and the highly esteemed Animation Kobe Award in the individual category for his work on Expelled from Paradise. This film was deemed so innovative that it enriched the world of animation. Mizushima’s passion and creativity continue to inspire and influence new generations of animators, proving that his talent is destined to endure over time
Yoshimatsu Takahiro, a renowned Japanese animator born on 27th August 1965 in Minō, Osaka, has spent over 40 years in the animation industry, leaving a significant impact. His creativity and talent have made him a prominent figure, captivating international audiences.
Starting his career at Studio Live in 1982, Yoshimatsu had the opportunity to learn under the guidance of the acclaimed director, animation director, and character designer Toyoo Ashida. During this period, he developed a deep connection with Madhouse Studio, solidifying his role in the animation industry. His membership in the Japanese Animation Creators Association (JAniCA) further contributed to the advancement of animation art in Japan.
In addition to being a talented animator, Yoshimatsu has also expressed his creativity as a mangaka, using the pseudonym Something Yoshimatsu. In 2018, he received the Newtype Anime Award in the character design category for his exceptional contribution to “A Place Further Than the Universe.”
The list of Yoshimatsu’s works in animation is impressive. He has contributed to numerous successful projects, assuming various roles such as director of animation, key animator, and storyboard artist. He has also made his mark on iconic series such as “Dragon Ball,” “Hunter x Hunter,” “Trigun,” “Overlord,” and “Slayers.” His influence has extended to the world of animated films, with valuable contributions to movies like “Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone,” “Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge,” and “Trigun: Badlands Rumble,” where he showcased his immense talent.
In addition to TV series and films, Yoshimatsu has also worked on OAV projects such as “Overlord: Ple Ple Pleiades” and “Slayers special” demonstrating his versatility and dedication to character design.
Yoshimatsu Takahiro’s career exemplifies extraordinary creativity and talent. His work continues to inspire new generations of animators and artists, leaving an indelible mark on the Japanese animation industry.
