SacAnime 2013 Reflections

Nicholaus Buthmann, the writer, and Me, the artist having a break during SacAnime 2013, Sacramento, Ca.

My first time behind the table at SacAnime was a blast. I admit to being a 2 of 10 in my knowledge of all things manga and anime. In fact I had scored myself less as a fan for the artform.

Our booth setup at SacAnime 2013, Sacramento, Ca

But a weekend amongst manga fanatics has changed my perspective. First, I so appreciate cosplayers. They share their love for the artform outwardly and embrace the characters. I enjoyed taking pictures and talking with folks that gave me summarys of the manga or anime with such enthusiasm.

A cosplayer from One Piece at SacAnime 2013, Sacramento, Ca.

Next, I was commissioned to draw characters that I'd never heard of, but the fana spoke of so well I had to take myself off of my critical wall for the artform. I found myself taking in some of the unique details of each book, and now look forward to applying them to my work. For example scarfs. I thought they were used to cover parts that you didn't want to animate. But visually they are such a strong addition to any scene.

Check out the illustration dynamics of the scarf in this commission based on Jojo's Bizarre Adventure, done at SacAnime 2013, Sacramento, Ca.

Finally, thanks to my creative partner, Nicholaus Buthmann, for never giving up on me. His eccentric passion for the artform is contagious and so I am giving in. His connection with with the convention attendees is genuine and the feedback is mutual.

I will return with better work and a growing appreciation for all things anime.