DOKKAN!! The japanese version of KAPOW!!
Written in huge block letters, a flying fist cracks a jaw, Dokkan! Anime, manga, and other forms of Asian influenced images are wrapped around superpowers and enormous amounts of energy. The heroes and villains pull from their inner core to dispel their enemies through the power of their integrity and the struggle within themselves. This genre is embraced by a growing number of young artists with images tied to the above-mentioned genres of graphic art. I noticed a lot of images in this vein over the past few years and am intrigued by the adherence to some set of standards defined by the character portrayed much like we recognize Hercules by his lion cape and huge muscles and saints with their symbols held in their arms, Thor and his Hammer. It is a modern mythology holding to the notions of Honor, Fortitude, Charity, and Strength. I relish the opportunity to give voice and eyes to this movement. I want to see the work, but I want to see the artist’s own vision as opposed to imitating a character directly. I feel that recognition of these artists addresses a movement that is destined to grow and become a seamless addition to the vast art community, much like digital photography has been accepted once the technology has improved. This could be an annual event depending on the participation. I hope that the young artists of our community embrace the challenge of this call for entries and show us a new way to make art.
–Greg Busceme, Sr.
Executive Director of The Art Studio, Inc.