Why I Published "Investment in Japanese Anime Genga (Keyframe Drawings)"

I recently released the English version of my book "Anime Original Art Investment: Exit Strategy," which was originally published in Japan in mid-February 2025. The English title is "Investment in Japanese Anime Genga (Keyframe Drawings)." This quick turnaround?just 10 days from Japanese to English release?would have been impossible without AI assistance.

Investment in Japanese Anime Genga (Keyframe Drawings)
https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0DYZT2VYQ

For the English edition, I included a 9-page manga created with AI-generated anime-style illustrations. This is largely experimental, and I'm considering developing it into a series based on the international response. The translation work was almost entirely handled by AI?I used OpenAI's o1 pro mode for translation and then cross-checked the accuracy by having Claude translate it back to Japanese. I even gave specific instructions like "use American English with a somewhat casual tone" and made other fine adjustments to the text.

I had two main reasons for publishing this English version:

First, I'm auctioning 55 pieces from my collection of anime production art at Heritage Auctions in America, starting March 22, 2025. With Heritage Auctions' permission, this book features photos of 25 of my submitted items, taken from the auction catalog. I've also included URLs so anime fans can access the auction website and check the bidding status in real-time. By publishing this book before the auction date, I hoped to generate more excitement for the March 22nd event.

Second, I've noticed that Japanese anime production art isn't properly understood in overseas markets due to the unique animation process used in Japan. While original anime artwork occasionally appears in American auctions now, there are many misconceptions?like failing to distinguish between genga (keyframe drawings) and douga (in-between drawings), or not understanding the complete production sequence from layout to modified genga.

That's why I felt an English guidebook explaining Japanese animation production processes was necessary. Rather than treating genga as simple "drawings," I wanted collectors to understand their value as collaborative works involving three key professionals: the episode director, animation director, and key animator. This understanding is essential for Japanese anime production art to gain proper recognition in international markets.

This publication was quickly planned to coincide with the March 22nd auction, so it's not as thorough as I would have liked. However, I plan to continue publishing English books about anime genga art. I see this as just the first step in my effort to share the appeal and value of Japanese anime genga art with the world.