Featured Artist: TokyoStrange

TokyoStrange’s artwork is self-described as a “mix between comic style and anime” and uses bright colors to veil darker undertones. Whether it’s a spine-chilling white rabbit or a skater zombie, TokyoStrange’s designs are an introduction to anime art like we’ve never seen it before.

TokyoStrange, or Kayla Speciale, is from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and her hobbies like anime, manga, video games, and cosplay help her find inspiration for artwork. Her unique anime designs – whether a spooky Wendigo spirit or a peek into a lighthearted summer romance – are a fun way to enter the world of anime. She admits, “sometimes when I get an idea, I struggle with how to present it in a cool, unique way” but she has used the lens of anime and comic art to tell her story.

Kayla finds inspiration from the artists she follows and is grateful for her artist community. In fact, she believes that the greatest advice to give to a new artist is simply to “follow other artists.” She confesses, “I only drew one way for the longest time and I became stuck.” However, after becoming involved in an artist community, she began to try new styles and pushed past her comfort zone to help her art grow. She jokes that her greatest struggle comes from “trying to build a following on social media and fighting with the algorithms.” Still, she’s learned that it’s important to stay active with her community and that building a network – either through connecting with other artists or by taking part in art challenges – is one of the “best tools to getting your art out there.”

In the future, she’d love for one of her original comics to become famous. Nonetheless, she says her “realistic” goal has always been “to just keep improving and see what becomes of it.” She believes that it’s a good thing when an artist can leave a legacy and “a mark on someone’s life.” She sees creativity has a way of helping the world by “pushing boundaries, leaving an impact, telling a story and inspiring others.”