Influence of anime on character design: A study of Indian animation students

Abstract

Animation captivates viewers with its visual storytelling, fostering creativity, delivering entertainment, and imparting knowledge. It influences culture, media and education, shaping our perception of the world. Animation films are popular for their engaging narratives, well-developed characters and cultural significance. Character design in animated films can embody a brand’s essence, transcend cultural boundaries and influence behavior. The rising prominence of animation in global media significantly impacts children’s learning and creativity. Japanese anime, in particular, has gained a strong foothold in various markets, including India, shaping the animation landscape. This study explores anime’s growing influence on character design among Indian animation students, assessing their character design process and awareness of Indian animation. Surveys and interviews with students, faculty and industry professionals reveal anime’s impact on students’ creative projects and the limited awareness of Indian animation. The study emphasizes the need for further research to understand anime’s influence on students’ artistic styles.