Overview
Together with my partner Jeff Kelly, we designed TOHO Animation’s Anime Expo 2026 booth, developing the project from early sketches through 3D layouts and final visuals. My role involved the early concept design, 3D blockouts, spatial layout, and final visual development and modeling.
Objective
Create a fresh, modern visual identity for TOHO while bringing five different anime properties together in one cohesive space.
Research
Research by Kevin and Jeff
Initial Directions
Sketches by Kevin. Feedback and notes from Jeff Kelly and Team
3D block outs by Kevin
BRINGING JAPAN TO LOS ANGELES
Inspired by the iconic streets and signage of Tokyo and Osaka, the final booth was designed as a cinematic Japanese alleyway. Its theater-like entrance also paid homage to TOHO’s origins as a film company.
WORLD WITHIN A WORLD.
The challenge was balancing the 5 standalone IP's Toho Animation Studios wanted to represent in their booth and making them feel unique without fighting visually. To solve this, we elevated the Toho Lens motif and used it to frame the five different worlds.
Elevation View
Top View
FROM CONCEPT TO REALITY
AX26 was a huge success, amassing over 400,000 guests during the July 4th weekend. The Toho booth was a showstopper in the main floor of the convention, positioned right at the entrance.
