Netflix and a former Studio Ghibli animator are offering a full anime scholarship in Japan
If you're an aspiring anime artist and wants to learn from the best--and for free--then this is definitely your lucky year! Streaming platform Netflix and Japanese anime producer WIT Studio have just announced that they are offering full scholarship for up-and-coming animators.
A scene from 'My Neighbor Totoro' / Source: Studio Ghibli
Talented student-artists will now have the chance to join the WIT Animator Academy, a six month-scholarship program, where one can learn the Japanese art form for free from no less than former Studio Ghibli animator, Hitomi Tateno.
Plus, the full scholarship will cover the course fee and a proportion of your living expenses while you hone your skills at the Sasayuri Video Training Institute in Tokyo.
The full scholarship program is open to applicants between 18 to 25 years old. Non-Japanese citizens will also be considered, given that they are already residing in Japan and know how to have everyday conversations in Japanese.
Interested student animators should apply through the WIT Animators Academy website by February 28.
A scene from 'When Marnie Was There' / Source: Studio Ghibli
Studio Ghibli is best known for their classic animated films such as Spirited Away, Ponyo, Tales From Earthsea, From Up on Poppy Hill, The Secret World of Arrietty, The Tale of The Princess Kaguya, The Wind Rises, When Marnie Was There, and My Neighbor Totoro.
Last year, Studio Ghibli spoiled their fans by coming up with one great surprise after the other.
In May 2020, when most establishments were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Studio Ghibli launched an online tour of their museum in Japan.
The following month, Studio Ghibli announced that it will be releasing the first full-length 3D computer graphic animated feature titled Aya and the Witch.
Then in September 2020, they announced that they will be releasing free-to-use stills from their popular animation films.
This year, Studio Ghibli fans who are also aspiring animators can level-up by applying for the full scholarship offered by Netflix and WIT Studio.
So, if you or someone you know is dreaming of an opportunity like this, better not let this chance pass you by.
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You might also want to take a look at luxury fashion house Loewe's capsule collection inspired by Studio Ghibli's My Neighbor Totoro.