Making a case for anime

Exhibits make a case for anime art's place: "Anime is not always what it seems.
You may think it's cartoony junk, and, indeed, there is some difference of opinion in the art world on the worth of anime art. However, an interesting conjunction of exhibitions in Louisville -- Julian Opie prints at the Speed Art Museum and local anime art at the main branch of the public library -- suggest this art form requires more introspective consideration.

When the 'Animecon 05' convention concludes with a reception at 5 p.m. Thursday at the main branch of the Louisville Free Public Library, Jessica Atchley, 16, will be there. The Butler High School student, who has been developing anime art since the fourth grade, has several images in the show, which will remain on display at the library through Sept. 30.

She said she will be wearing a prosthetic, metal-like arm she made like that worn by Edward Elric, the main character in 'Full Metal Alchemist,' a Japanese-made film that has spun off anime art, games, music and manga, or comic books.

Costume is a big part of get-togethers celebrating the art form that the hippie gang from the '60s may recall as Astro Boy cartoons and that their grandchildren know as Pokemon.

The one-day Louisville anime convention, with workshops and a costume contest, is aimed at those 13 to 18. In this country anime is often identified with children, teens and young adults, but in Japan and elsewhere it transcends age boundaries, though it is not always considered legit in high-art circles.

"I know a lot of artists, art professors look down on it," said Marty Edlin, 42, a master of fine arts graduate of the Art Institute of Chicago and supervisor of Metro Arts of Louisville, where he and 15 other instructors teach art, including anime. Many of the artists represented in the library show were taught by Edlin.

There will always be skeptics. I for one, beleive that the anime phenom will continue to thrive and grow in our culture.

Mark
The Anime Times

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