The San Diego Comic Con is usually regarded by most to be a hotbed for the gathering of American comic artists and American comics in general (and rightfully so). But even with that slant, the San Diego Comic Con has always drawn some Japanese artists to attend, and this year, Fewture Models invited famed artist Terada Katsuya as a Guest of Honor at their booth.

Terada Katsuya's style is very distinct, with a painted look that evokes Frazetta more than the traditional "Japanese anime" look. He's published quite a few excellent manga and art collections, from his wonderful rendition of SAIYUKI to his stunning art book, COVER GIRLS. He's most famous in the U.S. as being the character designer of Production I.G.'s BLOOD: THE LAST VAMPIRE movie.

Question: Your distinctive style of drawing is very unique. At the same time, your style reminds me of two other talented artists in Japan, Murata Range and Tsukasa Jun. Do you know them? And did you teach them or did you learn from them?

Terada Katsuya: I know Murata Range-san, but we don't do any collaborations together. But I believe Murata-san and Tsukasa Jun-san are pretty good friends. I think they do spend some time with this.

Q: Going back to your style, it is very unique and very different from traditional Japanese anime artists. Who were your influences?

TK: When I was in high school, I saw many European artists' works. And that came to influence me. Moebius. That's one artist I was influenced by.

Q: Between pure illustrations, manga and anime, which do you prefer doing?

TK: I prefer illustrations. But actually, it doesn't really matter as long as I get to draw. [smiles] It's mainly about drawing.

Q: How did you get involved with BLOOD: THE LAST VAMPIRE? Did you know Production I.G.?

TK: Director Kitakubo asked for me, gave me the script to look over and asked me to do the character designs. Then Oshii Mamoru, the producer, contacted me to finalize.

Q: Did you know them before this work?

TK: No, it was the first time I met them.

Q: When will you release volume 2 of your manga series, SAIYUKI?

TK: Hmm... it will be in the autumn. [smiles]

Q: What are your favorite hobbies? What do you like to do in your spare time?

TK: Watch movies, read books and do some free drawing.

Q: What is your favorite movie?

TK: Kurosawa movies! [smiles] [Ed. Note: He's referring to famed Japanese director Kurosawa Akira, who directed such films as SEVEN SAMURAI and YOJIMBO.]

Q: Do you have any new projects?

TK: Hmm... can I say it? [smiles] Well, I have a new weekly title coming out, and it will start next year.

Q: During BLOOD: THE LAST VAMPIRE did you have any direct input into the story or movie production?

TK: Not directly. But when I gave them my illustrations and designs for Saya and the others, there was probably some indirect influence I had on the movie then? Maybe. [smiles]

Q: Is this your first time visiting America? Are there any places you'd like to visit?

TK: No, it's my fourth time. Hmm... no place in particular. Maybe the zoo? [smiles] [Ed. Note: He's referring to the famous San Diego Wild Animal Park.]

Q: Thank you so much for your time! Please keep drawing your fantastic art!

TK: Thank you very much!

Thanks to Someya Hisami-san of Art Storm USA, Inc., as well as Sakai Megumi-san of Art Storm Co., Ltd., for helping to arrange this interview.