Representation has always been an issue in major forms of art and expression. While some may argue otherwise, it is quite evident that Japanese anime lacks representation of black people quite a lot.
While very few black characters are sprinkled here and there, absolutely no anime has a black guy as a protagonist.
The problem here lies in the roots of anime, i.e., the animation studios and creators. There are almost no black creators, and those who do work for animation studios aren’t given enough credit.
D’art Shtajio is thus a groundbreaking development in the field of anime, especially towards the representation of people of color.
Founded in 2016 by the African-American twins, Arthell and Darnell Issom and Henry Thurlow, D’art Shtajio is the first anime studio founded and owned by a black man.
In a recent tweet, D’art Shtajio’s official Twitter account revealed the music video for the song “Snowchild” by The Weeknd.
The music video portrays the life and journey of The Weeknd (Abel Makkonen Tesfaye) through animation. A lot of symbolic references have been tactfully used in the MV.
Arthell Issom directs the music video under studio D’art Shtajio. The artists and creator team of the studio have strived to achieve an art style that is unique to them.
Their art style is a smooth blend of western and eastern animation style, and it symbolizes a kind of solidarity between the two regions.
Music artist, The Weeknd showed support towards D’art Shtajio through his tweet.
Some of the original productions by D’art Shtajio include Indigo United, Tephlon Funk, and Xogenasys anime. The studio has also produced the Thinkin music video.
Both Arthell and Henry agree that living as an animator in Japan is a tough life, especially as a rookie; however, the artist inside them is fulfilled.
While the Japanese anime industry is slowly becoming accessible to foreigners, the representation of other people of color is still not enough.
The word “Shtajio” is a play on words to signify the Japanese pronunciation for ‘studio’ as well as ‘foundation art.’
We hope that more studios like D’art Shtajio develop in the future to adequately represent people in the anime industry as well as add a fresh perspective to the style.
Source: Twitter link of D’art Shtajio
No Comments on First Black-Owned Anime Studio Produces MV for ‘The Weeknd’