AKEMI TAKADA

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of “Kimagure Orange Road” , we are honored to host the artist who made this animated series famous worldwide: the esteemed Akemi Takada. Akemi Takada will conduct a free workshop where she will reveal the secrets of Japanese animation and her drawing techniques on Saturday, September 21 at 3:15 PM, followed by a lecture and live drawing demonstration on stage at 5:15 PM, and a free autograph sessionwith exclusive illustrations on Sunday, September 22 at 1:30 PM.

Born on March 31, 1955, in Tokyo, Akemi Takada is an icon in the world of Japanese animation, celebrated for her extraordinary talent in character design and illustration. Her career took off in the 1980s when she defined the style of some of the most beloved anime series of all time.

She first made her mark with “Urusei Yatsura“, transforming Lamù into a pop culture icon that has captured the imagination of generations of viewers.

She then significantly contributed to the magic of “Magical Angel Creamy Mami“, bringing to life the magical world of young Yu Morisawa.

Her masterful touch also illuminated “Kimagure Orange Road“, one of the most acclaimed romantic series, where she created a world full of emotions and adventures.

Akemi Takada continued to leave her mark with “Maison Ikkoku“, creating characters that have fascinated and entertained millions of fans worldwide.

These are just a few of the successful series this extraordinary artist has worked on.

In addition to her work in animation, Takada has enriched the worlds of light novels, video games, and other media, leaving an indelible mark with her delicate and detailed style.

Recognized internationally for her contributions to the animation industry, Takada is a respected icon who continues to inspire artists and anime enthusiasts around the world, demonstrating that her art is timeless and universal.

Workshop:

The workshop with the Master will take place on Saturday, September 21 at the Scuola Specializzata Superiore Alberghiera e del Turismo  (Higher School of Hotel and Tourism) from 3:15 PM to 4:15 PM. Paper and pencils will be provided, but you may bring your own materials if you prefer. The course is by reservation only. More information here

Autograph Session:

The autograph session will be held at the Auditorium (www.auditoriumbellinzona.ch) on Sunday, September 22 from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM. The entrance will be through the main entrance of the Scuola Cantonale di Commercio (Cantonal School of Commerce SCC). The Master will be available for 100 autographs by reservation; reservations will open on August 20, 2024, at 8:00 PM. An additional 50 autographs will be available without reservation. No further autographs will be granted. The Takada’s drawings on which she will sign are free of charge.

Check our website and social networks for updates.

For people with disabilities or reduced mobility, please contact us in advance via email at [email protected], so we can facilitate access to the Auditorium.

Please note that to access the workshop area and the autograph session, you must have a wristband that will be provided at the festival entrances. We recommend purchasing the festival ticket online to facilitate access. For more information, write to: [email protected].