Shopping Guide
Shingo Araki is a Japanese animator who made extensive contributions to the anime world from the 1970’s through the 1990’s. Araki is known for his passionate designs and for creating a multitude of beautiful characters. Araki passed away last year at the age of 72. “Hitomi to Tamashii”, an exhibit held in remembrance of Araki, was held until Dec. 10, 2012 at 3331 Arts Chiyoda in Akihabara, Tokyo. The exhibit attracted many people, especially on the anniversary on Araki’s death on Dec. 1. In an interview with Araki’s son, Shinji, we looked back on Araki’s legacy and influence on the history of anime.
Until the day he passed away, Araki continued to actively work as an animator. Working from home, he would draw all over the house using all different kinds of paper. Being the case that animators are normally so busy that many of them don’t see their families very often, this was surprising. According to Shinji, “He would eat all three meals throughout the day at home.” It’s no surprise that he had great skill as an animator, but he was also very family-oriented and worked hard for his family.
Araki produced a great number of works throughout his career. The ones that stand out in particular are Ashita no Joe and Saint Seiya. Araki worked along with Michi Himeno on Saint Seiya, which is a work that garnered huge success. The combination of Araki and Himeno and the work they produced together had a level of splendor that left a very strong impression. This is the kind of splendor that Araki’s works are known for.
Araki was not just an animator, he was also a manga artist. The last work Araki produced before he died was “Sourire d’enfance”, which was labeled as his first original manga in 45 years. The manga has no accompanying anime. Shinji went on to say, “I don’t think he had even reached his peak when he died.” Assuming this is true, it’s hard to say that anyone else has lived such an accomplished life.
“Sourire” is now available to read on the official site. The work is completely different from Araki’s work as an animator, and is full with warm, soft colors. If you get the chance, definitely take a look.
This article is excerpt and arranged from:
http://www.excite.co.jp/News/reviewmov/20121128/E1354016025123.html (Japanese)