Overview
- Studio Ghibli is actively seeking new talent for an upcoming animation project, as detailed in recent job postings on their official website.
- The application deadline for positions as background artists and finishing staff is April 24th.
- This new initiative could potentially involve either a single short animation or multiple projects.
Table of Contents
Renowned animation powerhouse Studio Ghibli has recently been making headlines for various reasons, particularly concerning OpenAI’s use of its iconic art style in generating “Ghibli-esque”renditions of user photos. However, amidst the ongoing discussions, exciting news has emerged from the beloved studio. Following the success of The Boy and the Heron, which premiered in 2023, Studio Ghibli has confirmed that it is embarking on a new short animation endeavor.
Interestingly, rather than a standard press release, this announcement was hinted via job listings on the studio’s official platform. The postings indicate a search for talent to support a new short animation project. Although unconventional as a method of announcing a new venture, the call for hiring creates anticipation among fans, implying that fresh creative work is underway.
Hiring Announcement from Studio Ghibli
Current Job Openings
At the end of the previous week, two job openings were posted on the Studio Ghibli website for individuals interested in contributing to a new animation project. The positions include one for background artists and another for staff to assist in the final stages of production, which involves digital painting and meticulous finishing touches. Applications for both roles will be accepted until April 24th, with background artists expected to begin their work on May 16th, and the finishing staff on June 2nd. This timeline suggests that the project might be nearing completion.
Given Studio Ghibli’s reputation as a premier animation studio, applicants are required to demonstrate their professional experience, including providing a portfolio of their previous work. Additionally, candidates must reside in Japan starting from April 30th and possess proficient Japanese language skills to effectively communicate with the production team. It’s noteworthy that while proficiency in Japanese is mandated, being a native is not a requirement.
Reflecting the studio’s commitment to traditional artistry amid recent debates on AI technologies, applications must be submitted via traditional mail, which also applies to the art samples required for the background artist applications. As part of their creative signature, one of the samples must be a hand-drawn piece, adhering to Studio Ghibli’s esteemed artistic standards.
Speculations on the New Ghibli Short
What Do We Know?
As the announcement primarily arises from the new job postings, details regarding the nature of the upcoming animation remain elusive. It’s likely that Studio Ghibli will maintain a level of secrecy until more formal communications are released. Notably, the studio often employs an under-the-radar approach; for instance, The Boy and the Heron had no plot previews or trailers before its theatrical debut. The allure of the Studio Ghibli brand itself is often sufficient to pique audience interest and drive ticket sales, regardless of the specifics.
An article from Casey Baseel on SoraNews24 highlights an interesting linguistic nuance in the job postings. The term “tanpen animeshon sakuhin”can be interpreted as referring to either a single short animation or a series of them, hinting at the possibility that multiple projects could be in development.
Known for its array of short films, many of which are featured at the Studio Ghibli Museum in Tokyo and the Ghibli theme park in Aichi, the studio may be preparing for another exclusive release. This has raised speculation: will the upcoming animation be tailored for display at the theme park or museum, or is it intended for a broader audience? As the studio remains tight-lipped, fans are hopeful for an official reveal later this year.
Source: Studio Ghibli Official Website (1, 2) via SoraNewsNetwork