#United States #Los Angeles #KADOKAWA #Anime Expo #Manga Creators

Innovative Portfolio Review at Anime Expo 2026

In a groundbreaking event at Anime Expo 2026, held from July 2nd to July 5th in Los Angeles, KADOKAWA introduced the highly anticipated "OnSITE Portfolio Review". This unique initiative brought together aspiring manga creators from across the globe, providing them with a rare opportunity to present their works directly to KADOKAWA's manga editors for constructive feedback and professional advice.

The event was designed to foster a direct dialogue between creators and established professionals, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in the creative process. Editors attentively reviewed each participant's works, engaging in meaningful discussions about narrative structure, character portrayal, and artistic execution. Many attendees were seen eagerly taking notes and asking questions, while others, intrigued by the creativity around them, stopped by to learn more about manga.

A survey conducted among participants revealed that the initiative attracted a diverse group of creators, many of whom are seeking commercial opportunities in Japan. Significantly, all participants expressed a strong desire to receive objective assessments and essential advice from Japanese editors. About 90% indicated they were aiming for commercial debut and serialization in Japan, highlighting the intense interest in Japanese markets.

Creators shared their inspirations, mentioning Japanese works like "Chainsaw Man", "Delicious in Dungeon", and "Berserk" as pivotal in their creative journeys. Influential figures such as Tatsuki Fujimoto, Kou Shiraishi, and Yoshihiro Togashi were frequently cited, underscoring the profound impact of Japanese manga culture on international creators’ artistic development.

Feedback after the event was overwhelmingly positive, with many participants expressing how direct interactions with editors helped dismantle perceived barriers between American and Japanese comic cultures. One creator noted feeling encouraged to merge their unique graphic styles—with roots in Western comics—with elements favored in Japanese manga, thereby cultivating a distinctive body of work.

Another remarked on the valuable insights received, such as recognizing strengths and areas for development in their art. Participants were eager to apply the advice they received, indicating a vigorous desire to showcase revised works to KADOKAWA's editors in the future, as well as a commitment to actively enter manga contests.

Looking forward, KADOKAWA plans to broaden the reach of the "OnSITE Portfolio Review" to include locations in Taiwan and Southeast Asia. This initiative aims to continuously foster connections between international creators and manga editors, facilitating the emergence of new talents and supporting their creative endeavors.

Commitment to International Creators

The "OnSITE Portfolio Review" reflects KADOKAWA's ongoing mission to support international creators through various initiatives. Through its program, "KADOKAWA WORLD MANGA ATELIER (KWMA)", KADOKAWA organizes international manga contests, operates the online portfolio submission site "Online Portfolio Review MOCHIKOMI", and implements on-site critiques by manga editors.

This strategic approach aligns with KADOKAWA's corporate mission to connect global talents and emotions as a creative platform. The organization is dedicated to accelerating content expansion that transcends national and linguistic barriers by collaborating with diverse, talented creators around the world.

Editor's Insights

Editors participating in this year’s "OnSITE Portfolio Review" remarked on the enthusiasm and innovative ideas shared by overseas creators. They noted a significant representation of creators with roots in graphic novels and American comics. Many discussions revolved around how these unique strengths could be harmonized with Japanese manga expressions.

Such interactions were deemed a distinctive aspect of the American setting, enriching the thought process of editors on how to present the appealing aspects of overseas creator works to Japanese audiences. This experience is expected to inform ongoing support for international creators and shape future initiatives in other countries, with anticipation for new collaborations in the creative field.

KADOKAWA, a comprehensive entertainment enterprise, continues to excel in publishing, visual media, gaming, web services, and educational ventures, alongside managing the IP experience facility Sakura Town in Tokorozawa. The company effectively implements its strategy of global media mix by leveraging technology to deliver stable and innovative IP to a worldwide audience.