Studio Gaga, the prolific manga studio behind Berserk, is looking for talented artists now. On December 9, 2022, job postings appeared on DAYS NEO and GANMO that describe what Studio Gaga is looking for in prospective staff members. And the good news is that prior experience working in a manga studio isn’t necessary. However, pro-assistants may negotiate work conditions and studio methodologies.
But there are several other requirements that candidates must meet for this position. They must have proficiency in digital drawing and painting using Clip Studio Paint. Anyone that’s even dabbled in making manga should be aware of this software application that’s become an industry standard in Japan.
Furthermore, candidates must have experience in drawing Medieval European buildings, naturals object, mobs, and other scenes. And Medieval European and Asian figures such as knights, nobles, farmers, and other characters. That’s quite understandable, considering Berserk’s rich fantasy setting and influences.
However, work will not only revolve around drawing since staff members will have to do chores that will keep the studio up and running. Staff will commute to the studio, located at Koto Ward, Tokyo, along the Rinkai Line, and are expected to work for 21 or 22 days per month, eight hours per day, with overtime available.
So what does the remuneration look like? It’s 13,500 yen (approximately US$100) per day, which comprises 12,000 yen (US$88) per day and a 1,500 yen (US$12) meal allowance. Those between 18 and 35 years of age and planning on working long-term will make for the ideal candidates.
How do you apply for this position at Studio Gaga?
If you already meet the above requirements and reside in Japan or planning on moving there before Spring 2023, then you should provide the following details about yourself:
- Name
- Address
- Age
- Nearest station
- Phone number
- E-mail address
You must also send in the following drawing samples (copies accepted), which Studio Gaga will not return:
- Medieval European or Asian-style figures (knights, nobles, farmers, etc.)
- Medieval European or Asian-style landscapes (castles and natural objects)
Send these samples to the following address by mail: 2-2-2 Kanda Awajicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0063 Hakusensha Co., Ltd. Young Animal Editorial Department (attention: Takamura). Or you can send an email directly to [email protected], which should reach the right contact person.
What does this mean for the Berserk manga series?
It’s a positive development as Studio Gaga should increase their output with additional staff. Many fans have complained that each chapter of Berserk takes too long (about 1-2 months) to come out. Fans have also become accustomed to the high quality of the artwork, which takes a lot of time to produce.
The fact that Studio Gaga has started the recruitment process gives us hope that the Berserk manga will not only release at a more frequent and regular cadence but also retain its quality. And if the new talent helps to rejuvenate the series, 2023 may be an exciting year for Berserk. Stay tuned!