Events

Time and Location

November 15-17
Japan Society (New York, NY)

About

Along with Japan Society, we are honored to present “Foreign Exchange: Anime Inspirations & Visionaries with LeSean Thomas,” a multi-day series including an exhibition, retrospective screenings and talk events featuring LeSean Thomas.
 
Bronx-born LeSean Thomas is one of the few Black Americans working in the anime industry in Japan. Beginning with television projects including The Boondocks and Legend of Korra, he would transform his career when he moved to Japan to create Children of Ether, Cannon Busters, and his most recent work, Netflix’s Yasuke, a project LeSean created, directed and executive-produced.

Through Foreign Exchange, Japan Society presents retrospective screenings which spotlight the works that inspired LeSean and celebrate the luminaries across the anime world. Appearing in-person throughout the series, LeSean will discuss his history with anime, his cross-cultural productions with Japanese creators and the artform’s deep impact with diverse audiences, including talks with The Imagination Project Inc. offering guidance for the next generation of creators, directors, producers, artists and animators. 

LeSean Thomas: From the Bronx to Creating Anime in Japan

Whether you’re considering a career in the creative industry or another field, this is a must-watch! 

Don’t miss this insightful and eye-opening panel discussion on career development with LeSean Thomas, designed for local NYC high school students. This conversation could shift your perspective and spark your passion for the future! 

LeSean Thomas: Behind-the-Scenes of YASUKE

In this discussion, LeSean Thomas shares behind-the-scenes stories & the process, from the initial idea to post-production, that brought Yasuke, the legendary Black samurai, to the screen.

Whether you’re a creative looking to break into animation or wonder how an original TV animation is created, this video is no short of insightful!

LeSean Thomas: The Business Of Creativity

In this post-“Cannon Busters” screening discussion, LeSean Thomas explains the logistics of an intellectual property (IP) becoming an anime – from presenting the idea to the finished product – and the important life skills needed to accomplish the goal.

For the full lineup of the events and information, please visit: Foreign Exchange: Anime Inspirations & Visionaries with LeSean Thomas — Japan Society

This event is co-presented by the Japan Foundation, New York and Japan Society.