A Dutch version of this blog was published in various local news outlets.
Normally, our Japanese Cultural Centre is hosted at Bibliotheek Leidsche Rijn, but last Saturday, Japan Fans Utrecht took the day to Vleuterweide to share the art of manga drawing with children.
“Manga is a Japanese comic or graphic novel style that has gained worldwide popularity,” explains Martine Mussies, the driving force behind Japan Fans and the creative mind behind the character BudoGirl. “Manga is known for its expressive characters with big eyes, detailed backgrounds, and dynamic poses.”
At Vleuterweide, children were given colouring sheets to fill in and trace. They learned how to project basic elements, work with carbon paper, and step-by-step, create ‘kawaii’ (cute) manga animals. The workshop was not only fun but also a fantastic way for the children to make new friends and discover the wonders of this Japanese art style.
“That is what Japan Fans is all about,” says Mussies. “Friendship and inspiration through our shared interest in Japanese culture.”
The workshop was such a success that Japan Fans and Bibliotheek Utrecht are already planning to repeat the event. Keep an eye on bibliotheekutrecht.nl and japanfans.nl for upcoming dates.
Join us as we continue to celebrate Japanese culture, creativity, and community!
