As anime and manga culture grows here in America, VIZ Media recognizes that some of the best works are made by independent mangaka. For this reason, VIZ Media has created a new imprint called VIZ Originals with the intent to publish original manga (graphic novels) created by manga-inspired creators. A full statement about the launch of this new brand was provided by VIZ Media below:
VIZ Media is launching a new English-language graphic novel imprint, VIZ Originals. As announced at Emerald City Comic Con this past weekend, VIZ Originals will expand VIZ Media’s renowned catalogue of popular titles by collaborating with manga-inspired creators to develop original stories that ignite the imagination. The imprint will be led by Executive Editor Fawn Lau, and the first titles will debut in 2020.
“VIZ Originals will be an incubator for innovative ideas and storytelling,” says Leyla Aker, Executive Vice President & Publisher. “There’s a demonstrated appetite for manga and manga-inspired content. With VIZ Originals, we have an opportunity to leverage over 30 years of experience in the industry to bring original, creator-owned content from top creative talents to fans worldwide.”
“We’re thrilled to support and contribute to the comics community through the VIZ Originals imprint,” adds Fawn Lau, Executive Editor, VIZ Originals. “There are so many extraordinary creators telling exciting stories in the style they love. We’re proud to be able to nurture this new generation of manga-inspired creators.”
Fawn Lau is Executive Editor for VIZ Originals, collaborating with new creators to publish their works. Her career in the anime and manga industry began in 2001 as a letterer and graphic designer for various manga publishers and independent creators, followed by roles as Senior Designer at VIZ Media and Creative Director at Kodansha Advanced Media. Motivated by her lifelong affection for the comic art community and her professional experience in manga publishing, Fawn has returned to VIZ to lead the new Originals imprint and is looking forward to supporting independent artists and helping them to execute their vision.
The VIZ Originals format will feature a premium cover treatment, larger trim size, and read left to right. Whether fantasy or sci-fi, horror or slice of life, the imprint will showcase dynamic paneling, skillful black and white artwork and compelling, diverse, storylines for young adult and adult fans.
For more information on the VIZ Originals imprint, please visit viz.com/originals.
I wonder if they will, one day, consider original English light novels. I know a guy who might be interested… hmm.. :)