Tokyo, Japan— Behind the scenes of Tokyo’s bustling anime studios, where color paints the night and the sounds of sketching fill the air, lies aesthetics realm where artists airbrush blank page of canvas frame by frame. It is here that Pakrada Bawonteerapak, known by her nickname Rien, an animator from Thailand, etched her drawing skills from the familiarity of her homeland to the challenging yet exhilarating world of Japanese animation.
Rien’s path to becoming a background artist and art director in Japan’s animation industry is nothing short of extraordinary, with challenges as formidable as the dreams she sought to fulfill. Her career began over a decade ago, but the seeds of her dream were sown much earlier. “I was that kid who fell in love with anime and could never let it go,” Rien recalls, her eyes filled with the same excitement she had as a child watching her favorite anime. “It was a dream that felt so distant but so vivid that I knew I had to chase it.”
The journey to her dream was neither straight nor smooth. Rien’s educational path was a testament to her determination. When she realized her passion for 2D animation, she sought information about what she should study, only to find that most faculties in Thailand did not match her interest. With a pocket full of dreams, she studied Japanese from scratch by herself and persevered until she got accepted into Nihon Kogakuin in Kamata, Tokyo, a Japanese vocational school. While studying, she had the opportunity to learn about different fields of creative work and discovered that she liked coloring and using graphics more than just animating.
Right before graduation, Rien made a pivotal decision to pursue a career in scene production. She spent almost a year looking for a job, starting by watching anime to see which scenes she liked, jotting down the companies that drew and made those scenes, and doing extensive research on each company profile. Along the way, she realized that the animation job interview process was exceptionally intense, with many skill tests and multiple interview stages that relentlessly tested her endurance and expertise. Rien also notes that being a foreigner added another layer of difficulty to finding a job in Japan. When she first joined Studio Bihou, Inc., a prominent anime studio known for creating many famous masterpieces, there were only two foreigners in the entire company. “I had to prove myself every step of the way,” she says. “It was like being in a crucible, where every challenge was designed to push me to my limits, but each hurdle was a step closer to my dream.”
A World of Colors and Details
In the world of animation, backgrounds are more than just scenery. As a background animator, Rien’s days are a whirlwind of creativity and detail. “Backgrounds are an integral part of the story, setting the tone and enriching the viewer’s experience,” she added. Every stroke of the brush and every shade of color is chosen with the intent to create an immersive anime’s storytelling.
“When I first started working, I kept asking myself how far I could develop.” Rien recalls, her eyes reflecting the memories of those early, uncertain days. Her initial years in the industry were filled with challenges. For the first three years, she painstakingly drew simple scenes under the watchful guidance of her supervisor. Each anime project demanded that she adapt to its unique drawing style, a process that went beyond mere skill development. “It’s a labor of love,” Rien says, “and the time and effort put into every detail are what make the final product resonate with viewers.” Her commitment to authenticity and detail is what transforms her art from mere animation into a vivid experience that touches the hearts of her audience.
The Art Director of Gunma-Chan Animation Series
A rewarding in Rien’s career came when she was assigned by the company to the art director of Gunma-chan animation series, the cute mascot of Gunma Prefecture, Japan, that aired in various major Japanese TV channels. The anime tells the story of Gunma-chan and her friends’ fun daily lives through beautiful locations and the insertion of Gunma’s interesting culture.
“Being the art director for Gunma-chan has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” Rien reflects. “It’s a project that allowed me to grow as an artist and connect with audiences on a deeper level.” she adds “And most importantly,” Rien adds with a smile, “the art director of this anime is Thai!”
For Rien, this role was not just a professional milestone but a deeply personal achievement. Her work on Gunma-chan required meticulous attention to detail and a profound understanding of the profile and gimmick of Gumma prefecture. Rien meticulously researched Gunma Prefecture, immersing herself in its landscapes, traditions, and local customs.
Her unique inspiration was also from the vibrant color palette of Thai temples as she sought to illustrate the beauty and vibrancy of Gunma Prefecture through her unique artistic lens. “I wanted to bring a piece of my heritage into my work,” she explains. “The rich, vivid colors of Thai temples have always inspired me, and I felt they perfectly complemented the lively and cheerful spirit of Gunma-chan.” She blended these elements with her artistic style, creating backgrounds that were not only visually stunning but also deeply resonant with the anime’s themes.
The result was a series of breathtaking scenes that brought the world of Gunma-chan to life. From lush forests and serene streets to bustling markets and tranquil riversides, each background told a story, enriching the viewer’s experience and adding depth to the characters’ adventures. Rien’s use of color and light imbued the scenes with warmth and vibrancy, making the world of Gunma-chan feel both magical and real.
An Ongoing Journey of Navigating Language and Culture
Rien’s journey to Japan was as much about cultural adaptation as it was about professional growth. Originally from Thailand, Rien’s transition to working in Japan was not solely a professional endeavor but a cultural immersion. The initial language barrier was formidable, and she faced the challenge of adapting to a new linguistic and cultural environment. “The reality of working in Japanese animation required a deeper understanding. It was not just about speaking the language but grasping its nuances and the cultural contexts behind it.” Rien notes. “In a field of background animation, communication is an essential skill for creating work that resonates with both the animation team and the audience.”
When asked about the type of anime or animation she dreams of working on, Rien reflects thoughtfully that she was drawn to cyberpunk theme because it blends traditional and contemporary artistic styles with the dominant science fiction in a dystopian futuristic setting. The fusion of futuristic technology with intricate graphic design is captivating to her as she finds the way cyberpunk themes combine these elements both challenging and inspiring.
Linking to this, Rien acknowledges that technology plays an indispensable role in the fast-evolving world of animation. “The heart of animation lies in the human touch,” she says. The benefits of digital tools like AI are tremendous but we should remain cautious about their implications. They should be used to complement human creativity, not replace it. “It’s about finding the right balance,” she explains.
Guidance for Aspiring Animators, Wisdom from the Front Lines
For those dreaming of a career in animation, Rien offers both encouragement and practical advice. “Passion is essential,” she says, “but it alone won’t get you far.” To future animators, she emphasizes the importance of being prepared to continuously learn, adapt, and persevere through challenges. Her own experiences underscore the value of persistence. Rien acknowledges that this industry is demanding, but the rewards are worth it. “Every challenge is a chance to learn and grow,” she reflects, “and every success is a testament to the hard work you put in.” Her words resonate with a deep sense of understanding and hope, encouraging future animators to embrace both the struggles and triumphs that come with pursuing their passion.
Amid the demands of her profession, Rien is a staunch advocate for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. She asserts that the pressures of the job can be overwhelming, but it is important to take care, both physically and mentally. Rien’s approach to managing stress and maintaining her health reflects her holistic view of a successful career. “Finding time for relaxation and personal pursuits is essential,” she says. “It’s about creating a balance that allows you to thrive in both your professional and personal life.”
Future Aspirations
As Rien looks to the future, her aspirations extend beyond her current achievements. She envisions creating her own anime using inspiration from Thai folklores. “I see myself creating my own anime,” she confides, her voice brimming with determination. “It’s a challenging goal,” she admits with a reflective smile, “but it’s what drives me forward.” Rien’s vision is to weave traditional Thai legends with the dynamic artistry of anime, drawing from the depth of her professional journey and her experiences in Japan. “Incorporating elements from Thai folklore into anime is a way for me to explore new artistic horizons and resonates with audiences on a profound level,” she explains.
Rien’s story is a compelling narrative of dreams realized through dedication and hard work. Her journey through the world of Japanese animation, serves as a reminder that with passion and perseverance, even the loftiest dreams can become reality.
