Hello, my name is Kofi and I draw manga (Japanese comics). I learned Japanese and have studied manga in Japan a few times with the goal of entering the industry.
Manga theory heavily references American cinema, so I have been studying screenwriting and filmmaking to learn how to tell better stories and improve my cinematographic compositions.
Attached is an image from my current project- a short drama about a man dealing with the loss of his daughter. I was inspired by a Japanese folk song by Hako Yamasaki called "Karasu" which is a creepy piece about crows kidnapping children.
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Welcome Kofi! Nice to meet you. Glad you're here.
Welcome to the community, Kofi BazzellSmith. I really like the artwork!
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Welcome to Stage 32! Lots of resources here.
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Welcome to Stage 32! Wow, sounds like you have an incredible story. We just launched our Short film Contest if you want to submit for your chance to win! The winner will get their short produced with a guaranteed budget of 10k. Feel free to write in to success@stage32.com and I’m happy to send you the link!
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Gorgeous!
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Beautiful! I love comics! Welcome to the community :)
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Thank you so much everyone. I feel very welcomed and I'm excited to learn a lot here.
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Beautiful work, Kofi! Do you teach classes for young artists? Or do you hope to create your own series?
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Hello Nikkia, yes, I teach workshops all around the country! I'm based in Illinois and in the next several months have events planned in Chicago, Atlanta, Austin TX, Vermont, and LA...I'm new to this being on the road thing so I am still looking for more gigs!
Also, working (a bit too slowly) on my first book, which I hope can become a series.
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Beautiful work Kofi BazzellSmith! Well done! Avid comics lover here. I wrote a graphic novel a while back so you have a kindred spirit in your corner.
Speaking of gigs, Kofi, you can search the Job Section for art/design jobs. www.stage32.com/find-jobs
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Welcome Kofi! Very nice work.
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Stunning work Kofi!
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What a lovely story depiction - very impactful art! Way to freshen up the day. :p Welcome!
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Hi Kofi BazzellSmith - thank you for sharing your work and inspirations! Your art and storytelling techniques are beautiful!
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Absolutely beautiful work Kofi! Can't wait to see your drama, that's a really creepy premise.