猫咪社区

猫咪社区 Hosts ‘Black Influence in Anime & Manga’ Workshops

As part of our Black History Month celebrations, students at Hammersmith and Fulham College and Ealing Green College took part in inspiring Manga workshops over the past two days, designed to explore the significant influence of Black culture within the art form. The session was led by Nalia Benn-Silva-Da-Rocha, a young Black entrepreneur and commissioned artist, who offered a masterclass on integrating cultural influences into manga creations.

Nalia highlighted how creativity serves as a vital outlet for self-expression and cultural identity. “Art is not just about aesthetics; it’s a powerful medium for empowerment and connection. When we infuse our work with our cultural heritage, we not only tell our own stories but also uplift the narratives of our communities.”

The workshop emphasised the importance of teamwork in manga production and, aligning with Black History Month, focused on the influence of Black heritage on the genre. Nalia introduced students to notable figures such as Japanese artist, Atsushi Ohkubo, illustrating how their work reflects and celebrates diverse cultural backgrounds. Atsushi, known for his work on the series “Fire Force,” created the character Kilik Rung, a two-star weapons master hailing from West Africa. Kilik is a testament to the rich storytelling that arises when cultural influences are embraced.

Ogun Montgomery, another character from “Fire Force,” was also introduced to the students; a third-gen pyrokinetic whose attacks are named after the Yoruba, as well as his ‘flamy ink’ resembling tribal tattoos. His name is derived from an orisha – the Yoruba deity of metalwork, blacksmiths and toolmakers. Ogun led immigrants to Tokyo safely, and made it his purpose to protect them, just as his family did.

As she shared her own journey in the art industry, Nalia talked to students about the importance of hard work and passion. Since launching her art career in 2018, she has gained recognition for her vibrant commissions and promotional artwork, demonstrating how artistic expression can transcend boundaries and connect communities. The workshop was a vibrant celebration of creativity, connection, and the transformative power of art in uniting people from all backgrounds.