Freelance

On the morning of July 18 in 2019, Kyoto Animation studio suffered an arson attack that killed at least 36 people and injured an additional 33. According to Wikipedia, "It is one of the deadliest massacres in Japan since the end of World War II and the deadliest building fire in Japan since the 2001 Myojo 56 building fire."

Kyoto Animation is responsible for many successful anime series and films—both adaptations and original animations. Their works are valued and praised by fans due to their depth and quality. There was an outpour of mourning and support by the community who have been touched by Kyoto Animation’s works over the years. This community was able to come together to raise $2,367,030 for aid distribution. My friend and cosplayer contacted me to work out a partnership in order to make our own contribution. All proceeds made from the photobook of Violet Evergarden—a character and anime series produced by Kyoto Animation—will be donated towards the fundraiser to #HelpKyoAniHeal.   

Studio Ghibli's award-winning animated films have helped kids, as well as adults around the world, grow up with magic and revisit simpler times since 1985. Spirited Away is the second highest-grossing anime film made in Japan, amassing over US$360 million worldwide. I, as well as many of my friends, have very fond memories of this film. My friend and Haku cosplayer requested that we create a photobook to commemorate those special memories. 

I was commissioned by my good friend, Yumemi 夢美 to create a logo for her brand as a cosplayer, youtube and idol. The kanji [ yume + bi (mi) ] in her name represents beautiful dreams. The concept for the finished product is to produce a soft, fluffy imagery that reminds us of our sweetest dreams. 

Through a unique lens filled with fantastical oddity, wonderment, and just a hint of darkness, I study and comment on socio-political issues in my design.

© 2024 Ngoc Dao.