Manga Ichiba Main Page
A brand new event is coming to FanimeCon this year! Manga Ichiba is America’s first original English-language doujinshi market.
Manga Ichiba is a new experience that provides a venue for artists selling doujinshi manga originally produced for an English-speaking audience. This is different from Japanese-language doujinshi that has been translated into English. Our goal is to nurture the English-language doujinshi fandom and grow a community of fans from all walks of life. We want to dispel the myth that there isn’t a market for these works by giving artists and readers a place to connect and share their passions. Let’s prove that the spirit of doujinshi can thrive just as well in the Western world!
Please see the following pages for more information about this event:
General FAQ
Artist’s Information Guide
Application Form
If you are interested in applying, please be sure to read all sections thoroughly!
General FAQ:
What is doujinshi?
In Japanese culture, doujinshi (同人誌) refers to nearly any self-produced work of art, including manga, music, games, prints, statues, cosplay, ice sculptures, scrimshaw, or anything else. It’s roughly equivalent to the English term “indie.”
How is this different from Artist’s Alley?
While it is true that doujinshi refers to independent works of all varieties, this event focuses specifically on self-published manga. A small number of games may also be allowed.
Any other differences?
CASH IS PREFERRED! Many doujinshi artists are simply hobbyists and may not have a reliable way to make card-based transactions. You can get by with digital money-transfer apps, but cash is quick, easy, and universal!
What do you mean by “the spirit of doujinshi”?
The “spirit of doujinshi” is the passion for manga and sharing that passion with other fans! While it is possible to profit from doujinshi sales, and a few lucky artists launch their careers doing so, a large number of people of all skill levels make and sell doujinshi simply as a hobby. This is their way to connect with other fans and share their passion with them.
What is a “circle”?
A circle is the name under which a doujinshi is produced. It can be a single person, or group of people working together to produce art under one name. CLAMP, one of the most well-known circles, once said “think of us like a manga rock band.”
How is this different from indie comic and zine events?
American indie comic events tend to focus on comics in the Western style and traditions and are generally focused on original IPs. Manga Ichiba is focused on comics in the Japanese style, and that tradition is equally welcoming of original and fan works.
Isn’t doujinshi just porn?
Not at all! Japanese doujinshi has a wide range of content. Manga Ichiba allows and encourages R18 material, but this is not an exclusively R18 event. Manga (and games!) for all ages are equally welcome.
Will there be separate spaces for R18 and All Ages works?
The current plan is for these demographics to be entirely separate, but it ultimately depends on the number of applications we receive.
If this event’s focus is growing a doujinshi manga community, why are you making an exception for games?
Because doujinsoft (indie games), particularly R18, are also under-served. Manga Ichiba will allow for a less competitive and cost-effective space for indie developers.
I want to make a book but my art sucks…
Artists of all skill levels are encouraged to apply! Doujinshi is about sharing your passion, whatever form that comes in. From professionally printed, perfect-bound graphic novels by industry veterans to the cheapest hand-stapled copybon by first-time artists, all are welcome!