The Philosophical Approach of Acky Bright
At Anime Frontier 2023, we had the opportunity to delve into the mind of Acky Bright, a renowned artist famed for his “kawakakkoii” style – a blend of the cool and cute elements from the golden age of Japanese manga and anime. Bright’s art, a fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern flair, draws heavily on Kabuki theater and samurai culture, presenting a vivid, intricate, and dynamic visual experience.
Being a natural-born artist, much of what he does comes instinctively, yet he has a deep sense of never truly being satisfied. Much like his artistic process in general, he does not believe that there is any moment where he feels he has reached a final destination. Even after completing a great accomplishment, something deep within pushes him to go even further and farther in his next endeavor. For many, this is what makes his art so appealing and gives a sense of anticipation for what he will do next.
Acky Bright Bridges Manga and Graphic Novels
Acky Bright’s artistic influences range from Akira Toriyama to traditional Edo-period ukiyo-e and kabuki dramas. In the interview, Bright expressed a strong affection for these arts that are deeply ingrained in the history and spirit of Japanese creative expression. During his younger years, he worked within the ranks of many highly respected Kabuki productions. He initially honed his craft creating artwork used in elements of these performances. As time progressed, the many facets of his interests began to weave their way into his work. Currently, he envisions a hybrid manga/graphic novel that promises a unique blend of Eastern and Western art traditions. This cross-cultural fusion aligns with his belief in art’s power to unify diverse peoples, transcending language and cultural barriers.
Acky Bright on AI and Roadblocks in Creative Expression
When facing creative blocks, Bright’s approach is simple yet effective: step back, refresh, and return with new perspectives. Discussing this, he mentioned that sometimes it is simply better to go to bed and allow your creative psyche to reset. He believes that starting anew is part of the creative process, embodying the essence of trial and error essential in art – a quality he believes AI cannot replicate. In explaining this idea, he likened AI to a high-speed racing car, emphasizing its capability for rapid performance but lacking the nuanced artistry of human endeavors. While you could say that this machine surpasses the speed of even the greatest athletes, you cannot compare the two in terms of artistry. One is a tool designed for speed but lacks the spirit of growth and accomplishment that comes from human endeavors.
Acky’s Message: Unity as One
Acky Bright’s ultimate message through his art is the unity and harmony of the diverse. While he admits that he has only a small voice in the overall scheme of things, he still dreams of making the world a slightly happier place through his creations. Incorporating influences from many great artists, his inspirations are diverse and span across time and borders. While his Japanese artistic influences are well-documented, he also cites artists such as Chagall, Picasso, Dali, Da Vinci, and even Norman Rockwell as playing a role in his development. Considering all these elements woven into the tapestry of Acky’s art style, it’s not surprising that “Unity as One” is the overarching message he wishes to convey to the world.
In conclusion, Bright’s art is not just a visual feast; it’s a journey through history, cultures, and emotions, aiming to bring people together in appreciation and joy.