Japanese illustrator Acky Bright appeared at Anime Expo 2025 for a panel to highlight his recent international collaborations and ongoing original projects. The event was moderated by actor and singer Takaaki Hirakawa (Lord Mizoguchi in Shogun), and it focused on Bright’s increased presence in multiple industries, including animation, gaming, fashion, and advertising.
Bright began the panel by previewing an upcoming project scheduled for release in October. While details were limited, he described the initiative as one of his largest to date. The announcement follows a year marked by several high-profile partnerships that have increased Bright’s visibility outside Japan. Bright’s recent work includes collaborations with both Japanese and global brands:
- McDonald’s Japan: He created original artwork and merchandise as part of a campaign involving musicians Ado, YOASOBI, and Suisei Hoshimachi. Bright was responsible for character design and visual direction in the music video that accompanied the promotion.
- Monster Hunter Now x Ayase: Bright contributed illustrations tied to Capcom’s Monster Hunter franchise, working with artist Ayase.
- DC’s Blue Beetle: For the film’s promotional campaign, Bright created key visual material, applying his artstyle to the Western superhero space.
- “Studio Infinity” Exhibition at Japan Society: In New York, Bright participated in a solo show that included live drawing sessions over several weeks. The exhibition aimed to give viewers insight into his creative process.
- Fragrance Collaboration: Bright also continues work on an ongoing character design project associated with a fragrance line. A second installment is currently in production.
During the panel, attendees participated in interactive drawing games. In “Guess the Sketch,” Bright drew characters live while the audience attempted to identify them for prizes such as branded merchandise and limited-edition art cards.
In the “3 Deck Challenge,” audience members supplied three unrelated words, which Bright used as prompts for impromptu character designs. Examples included combinations like “Mage, Bone, Eternal Adolescence” and “Bard, Fishtank, 10 Million TikTok Followers.” The segment included informal commentary and Q&A as Bright worked.
During a moderated discussion, Bright discussed his approach to character creation, emphasizing a long-standing preference for original designs over reinterpretations of existing intellectual property. When asked about personal favorites, he mentioned Tokyo Ghoul and Pikachu from Pokemon.
He also spoke briefly about his friendship with illustrator Kenji Watanabe (Digimon), saying they had discussed the possibility of a future collaboration. Bright additionally noted his interest in Monster Hunter, naming the great sword as his preferred in-game weapon.
The panel included a preview of an upcoming figure design featuring a large weapon, revealed only to Anime Expo attendees. The piece appears to be part of a broader original project currently in development.
The session concluded with a raffle that included promotional items such as Squid Game coloring books and original artwork. Bright closed by thanking attendees and stating that he plans to return with further announcements, including potential developments related to his original characters.
About Acky Bright
Acky Bright is a Tokyo-based illustrator known for his work across manga, advertising, and Western comics. He has worked with clients including BMW, Netflix, Hasbro, and Meta, and has experience in both live performance drawing and character design. His portfolio includes contributions to DC Comics and a lead design role in McDonald’s U.S. “WcDonald’s” campaign.
Source: Press Release, Anime Expo 2025
© Acky Bright
Participate In Discussions