NFBE Chapter 236 Communicating with the Author of Astro Boy
Chapter 236 Communicating with the Author of Astro Boy
Compared with modern comic exhibitions, Japanese comic exhibitions in the 80s were less commercial.
It mainly focuses on display and communication, and commercial activities such as brand promotion and peripheral product sales are relatively rare.
The sales of peripheral products mainly consisted of some simple comic books, posters, cards, etc., unlike the current comic exhibitions where there are many types and diverse forms of peripheral products.
Subsequently, related character images, scene settings, comic manuscripts, etc. were displayed in large quantities at the comic exhibition, becoming the core content of the exhibition.
The comic exhibition will display the cartoonists' manuscripts, original works, etc., giving the audience the opportunity to appreciate the process and details of comic creation up close, and feel the cartoonists' creative style and artistic charm.
These manuscripts and original works have high collection and artistic value for comic lovers, and are also one of the important highlights of the comic exhibition.
When the outstanding Japanese cartoonists heard that Jiang Weimin and five others were comic masters from China, they were all filled with respect.
Many of Japan's current comics drawing techniques are indeed derived to a certain extent from China's exquisite painting techniques.
Although Japanese comics underwent many innovations after their flourishing development in the 1970s, this did not in the least diminish their respect for Chinese comics.
Jiang Weimin's sudden appearance is like a bright star that illuminates the comics world, allowing Japanese cartoonists to increasingly feel the mysterious charm of Chinese cartoonists.
In fact, many well-known Japanese cartoonists know deep down that their painting skills are still far behind those of Chinese cartoonists.
In Japan, they can only be called cartoonists; but in China, cartoonists can also become highly respected painters, which shows their status and artistic achievements.
Osamu Tezuka, a famous cartoonist who enjoys great reputation in Japan and even in the world,
In 1963, he participated in the production of "Astro Boy", which became Japan's first long-running animated television series.
Once this work was released, it caused an unprecedented sensation in Japan and greatly promoted the rapid development of the Japanese animation industry.
However, the idol that Osamu Tezuka admired most was Mr. Wan Laiming, who produced the classic animation "Havoc in Heaven".
Osamu Tezuka was very fond of the image of Sun Wukong. He once said with emotion: "In fact, the prototype of Astro Boy's ability to fly and fight comes from Sun Wukong."
As a loyal supporter of "Journey to the West", Osamu Tezuka created many works related to "Journey to the West".
As early as 1952, Osamu Tezuka carefully created the comic "My Sun Wukong" with great respect for the Chinese animation "Princess Iron Fan".
Osamu Tezuka also admired Jiang Weimin's adaptation of Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons Strike Back in Heaven, and saw Jiang Weimin and his team appreciating the manuscripts of Japanese cartoonists.
"Hello, seniors. Welcome to Japan to participate in this grand comic exhibition."
The translator at the side respectfully translated Osamu Tezuka's sincere words.
Hua Junwu raised his eyes slightly and looked at Osamu Tezuka who came to greet him humbly and politely.
"Hello, what can I do for you?" Although the words were brief, they revealed a calm demeanor.
"Senior, I heard that the author of The Monkey King is also attending this comic exhibition. I have always been interested in his creative process and would like to exchange ideas with him."
Osamu Tezuka's eyes were full of anticipation.
Hua Junwu exchanged a meaningful look with his three companions, and then turned his gaze to Jiang Weimin.
"Wei Min, I'm looking for you. You must have a good exchange with your Japanese friends!"
Afterwards, Hua Junwu solemnly introduced Jiang Weimin to Osamu Tezuka.
Osamu Tezuka's gaze slowly fell on Jiang Weimin following Hua Junwu's movements.
When he saw that the author of "The Monkey King" was so young, his face was full of surprise.
"Hello, Mr. Jiang. I am Osamu Tezuka. I never thought that you, at such a young age, could create such a brilliant work. It is really admirable."
"Mr. Tezuka, nice to meet you. I have carefully read your "Astro Boy" and my "Son Wukong". Both of them are rare and excellent works, each with its own unique charm."
Jiang Weimin responded with a smile.
Tezuka Osamu bowed slightly, and the smile on his face became even brighter. "Mr. Jiang, you are too kind. Your adaptation of "The Monkey King" is really wonderful. The exquisite pictures and the passionate fighting style shocked me deeply. I think you have created a new painting mode!"
Jiang Weimin waved his hand and said, "Mr. Tezuka, you are too kind. Mr. Tezuka's "Astro Boy" is also very influential. It has many fans not only in Japan, but also all over the world.
Your works are full of visions for the future and reflections on human nature, and they have given us, the younger generation, a lot of inspiration.”
Jiang Weimin and Tezuka Osamu then had an in-depth discussion on painting techniques, painting subjects, and finally the later development of comics.
After communicating with Jiang Weimin, Osamu Tezuka felt sincere admiration for Jiang Weimin. Jiang Weimin had his own insights on painting methods, subject matter and development.
Osamu Tezuka said with emotion: "China's comic art has a profound foundation, which is why it has produced such an outstanding comic artist like you."
Jiang Weimin said firmly: "We are also constantly learning and improving, and there are many things we can learn from the Japanese comics industry.
I hope we can have more exchanges and cooperation in the future and jointly promote the development of comics art.”
After hearing Jiang Weimin's words, Osamu Tezuka suddenly had a bold idea in his mind.
"Mr. Jiang, I have an idea. Can I exchange manuscripts with you?
I am very curious about your creative process and believe that by exchanging manuscripts, we can better understand each other’s artistic concepts.”
Osamu Tezuka's eyes were full of expectation and sincerity.
"Mr. Tezuka, I would be happy to exchange manuscripts with you. And, Mr. Tezuka, I also have a proposal.
Can we work together to create a piece using our signature works?"
"Good idea, Mr. Jiang, wait a moment, I'll arrange for someone to prepare the painting tools!"
After saying this, Osamu Tezuka turned around and left impatiently, his steps filled with eagerness and excitement.
After Tezuka Osamu left, Hua Junwu looked at Jiang Weimin and said jokingly, "Weimin, you and that Japanese painter seem to get along well!
It seems that your works are really popular abroad. You are really an extraordinary person.”
There was a hint of ridicule in Hua Junwu's tone, but his eyes were full of relief.
"Uncle Hua, I am popular because of my works, but you are popular because of your painting skills.
You can see that all the cartoonists in Japan admire you very much! You are the masters of Chinese painting, and your artistic achievements and influence are immeasurable. "
Jiang Weimin said sincerely, his eyes full of respect for the veteran artists.
The four old artists burst into laughter when they heard this. Hua Junwu said, "Wei Min, you are really good at talking! However, it is an honor for us old guys to be recognized by our peers.
However, you, the younger generation, are the hope of the future comic book industry."
After a while, Osamu Tezuka hurried over with painting tools.
"Mr. Jiang, how about you draw first and I complete it?"
Jiang Weimin agreed without hesitation, and soon he finished two paintings of very different styles but both vivid and lifelike.
In one painting, the Monkey King is shaking hands, as if conveying friendship and goodwill to the world.
The other picture shows the Monkey King in battle, which is so majestic and magnificent that it seems to make people feel the intense battle atmosphere.
Afterwards, Osamu Tezuka concentrated on carefully completing the two paintings.
When the two paintings were completed, warm applause broke out from the crowd around.
Jiang Weimin looked at the two paintings carefully and finally chose the one of handshake.
In Jiang Weimin's view, this painting represents the friendship between China and Japan and is of great significance. It is not just a painting, but also a symbol of cultural exchange and friendship between the two countries.
Osamu Tezuka chose a painting of the Monkey King fighting Astro Boy.
After choosing the painting, the two looked at each other and smiled.
Finally, this painting of the Monkey King and Astro Boy shaking hands was exhibited in the Qingdao Publishing House Comic Exhibition Hall.