Professor Takao Fujiwara
Chair, Web Business Technology Program, Graduate School of Applied Information Technology
Professor Emeritus, Kyoto City University of Arts
Former Professor and Dean, Faculty of Fine Arts, Kyoto City University of Arts
As a researcher in astrophysics conducting numerical simulations, Professor Takao Fujiwara has made extensive use of computer graphics (CG).He also spent a little over half a year at a university in the United Kingdom studying CG.At KCGI, he primarily teaches students specializing in “IT Manga and Anime,” covering everything from the basics to advanced applications of CG.He encourages students to hone their artistic sensibilities on a daily basis and recommends visiting art museums and studying art history.
Learn 3D CG, Essential to Film Production, and Hone Your Artistic Sensibilities to Make Your Mark on the World
AI Has Its Limits; It Does Not Take Away Human Creativity Itself
You have conducted research throughout your career. Could you tell us about the role IT has played in your work and how the emergence of generative AI in recent years might affect the arts?
In natural science, experimental means together with deep insights into the laws governing nature play a major role in understanding nature. However, in my field of astrophysics, there are many phenomena that are impossible to conduct experiments. Therefore, numerical simulations are often used. For example, equations that determine the structure of a star have been known since the 19th century, but it was in the 1960s when computers became available that the internal structure could be accurately solved, and its evolution understood. Computers were originally calculators, but the change in the amount of calculation brought about a change in quality, and in the world of science and technology and research methods changed completely. Computers have also come to be used as a tool to facilitate trial and error, as a tool to assist creation in the field of design and art, and as a means of expression itself.
IT has continued to advance rapidly, and in recent years, issues surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) have come to the fore.Generative AI can easily produce virtually anything people ask of it, to the extent that some fear it could take over human society.However, these outputs are merely combinations of imitations.Generative AI has its limitations; for example, it cannot make discoveries in science or theory or create genuinely creative works. It therefore does not take away human creativity itself. I believe we should engage with these technologies thoughtfully, taking care with issues such as copyright.
Master the Fundamentals and Theory of Maya, a Professional-Grade Software Package
Could you tell us about the courses you teach?
The IT Manga and Anime concentration focuses on Japanese culture and the content industries, which have earned worldwide recognition, and explores ways to leverage them in web business.After studying existing creative industries, students follow a practical curriculum designed to help them develop solutions and create new business models.
I teach Computer Graphics, a course primarily intended for students in this concentration.Needless to say, 3D CG is essential to film production, and today, 3D CG software is increasingly used even in two-dimensional anime.In my classes, I teach students how to use Maya, a 3D CG software package.Students can use Maya free of charge while enrolled in school, and it offers professional-grade features used in the production of science fiction films and other works.By learning not only how to use the software but also the fundamentals and theories behind it, students can transition smoothly to other 3D CG software packages as well.
An Excellent Learning Environment for Developing Creativity and Artistic Sensibilities
What message would you like to share with students studying IT Manga and Anime at KCGI?
Computers are tools that support people's creative activities and enrich their lives.Above all, it is important to master the fundamentals to use them effectively.By also giving due attention to concepts and ways of thinking, students will be able to apply what they learn across a wide range of fields.Japanese manga and anime are highly regarded around the world, and students come to KCGI from many different countries.Among the faculty teaching in the IT Manga and Anime concentration, there are not only specialists like me, whose expertise lies in fundamentals and theory, but also instructors with professional experience in the industry.We also have excellent facilities, and I am confident that KCGI provides an outstanding learning environment.
Kyoto is home to Choju-giga, often regarded as Japan's oldest manga.I sincerely hope that, while studying here, students will develop their creativity and artistic sensibilities by visiting art museums and learning about art history, acquire a solid foundation of relevant knowledge and skills, and go on to make their mark on the world.