Drawing of a brown-haired woman wearing a black school uniform and holiding a blue book, and a white-haired woman wearing a white-and-blue school uniform and holiding a paintbrush Text: pixiv oshioshio modare

Anime Expo 2023, Interviews With Artists: Modare and Oshioshio


Interview With Modare and Oshioshio
Location: Email
Interview Date: 6/28/2023


Modare

Drawing of a brown-haired woman wearing a black school uniform and holiding a blue book.Text: pixiv Industry Panel Rising Stars: Up-and-Coming Artists in Asia July 2, 2023 10:00 - 11:00 Room 408 Special Guest: Modare Anime Expo
Image used with permission by Pixiv

Anime Herald: What is your origin story as an artist?

Modare: I started drawing for the first time long before my earliest memories. It was much later when I seriously considered making a profession out of drawing. Upon reaching adulthood, I realized that university was not a good fit for me, and subsequently made the decision to pursue my greatest passion, which is drawing.

Anime Herald: How has Genshin Impact affected you as an artist?

Modare: Genshin Impact has been inspiring numerous artists with its captivating world and costumes. It seems that I, too, am being influenced in a similar way. The diverse cultural outfits, environments, decorations, and character designs they present serve as excellent sources of inspiration. I believe they fulfill the role of a reference book, encompassing and showcasing a culmination of existing successful art styles.

Anime Herald: What are you most looking forward to in the US, or at Anime Expo?

Modare: The world is interconnected through the internet, but it is indeed a fact that there are still significant cultural differences depending on the region. Even if you have knowledge of these differences, it can be challenging to truly experience them on the spot. However, I am eagerly looking forward to participating in Anime Expo, with the hope of directly sensing and embracing these cultural variations.

This opportunity holds comprehensive significance, encompassing not only their lifestyles but also their art styles and beyond. It is of great importance to me, personally, because I aspire for my artwork to be cherished by diverse cultural spheres. Being able to directly experience and incorporate these differences into my art is a crucial aspect I value greatly.

Oshioshio

Drawing of a white-haired woman wearing a white-and-blue school uniform and holiding a paintbrush. Blue paint is flying about and she is splattered with paint.Text: pixiv Industry Panel Empowering Emerging & Seasoned Artists July 3, 2003 14:00 - 1500 Room 408 Special Guest: Oshioshio Anime Expo
Image used with permission by Pixiv

Anime Herald: What is your origin story as an artist?

Oshioshio: I have always loved drawing since I was a child, but I never thought of becoming an artist as a profession. It was mainly because I lacked confidence in my own abilities. However, as I entered society and gained various life experiences, I gradually came to believe that being an artist was the only path for me. With courage, I took the first step towards becoming an artist and have been moving forward ever since, one step at a time.

Realizing that I have a deep passion for drawing and wanting to continue being an artist until the end of my days has become my fundamental motivation. It is my core belief and the driving force behind my artistic journey.

Anime Herald: How has Genshin Impact affected you as an artist?

Oshioshio: I absolutely love Genshin Impact and have been playing it every day since I started. The graphics and character designs for each event are truly amazing, and they always inspire me. It has become a goal of mine to be involved with Genshin Impact in some capacity, even professionally, and that dream came true in March of this year.

I am genuinely thrilled to have the opportunity to draw Genshin Impact artwork at Anime Expo. Whether it’s playing the game or creating art related to it, Genshin Impact constantly boosts my motivation and enthusiasm.

Anime Herald: What are you most looking forward to in the US or at Anime Expo?

Oshioshio: I rarely have the opportunity to meet people from overseas, so I’m really excited about meeting and interacting with international fans! I’m curious to know how everyone enjoys otaku culture, what their favorite works are, and who their favorite characters are. I would love for them to share their experiences with me.

Also, I’m really looking forward to the Artist Alley. I absolutely love Japan’s Comic Market and have been attending almost every year. I’ve heard that the Artist Alley at this event is similar to the American version of Comiket, which makes me even more excited. I can’t wait to explore the booths and see all the amazing artwork on display.

Drawing of a woman with white-and-blue hair, wearing a white dress with black pinstriped stockings. Her white hat is adorned with gigantic blue flowers. Text: Pixiv Visit pixiv at Booth AA01 for Giveaways and 4506 for Live Drawing Sessions Artwork by Shirow Miwa

In addition to their industry panels, Pixiv will also host a pair of live drawing sessions for each artist:

  • Modare on July 1st (Sat) and July 2nd (Sun)
  • Oshioshio on July 3rd (Mon) and July 4th (Tue)
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