Hiromu Oka
Q&A | Hiromu Oka
Motion Designer
Published
Feb 2024
Hiromu Oka is a motion designer working between Japan and London, specialising in blending analogue and digital techniques.
In 2019, he began experimenting with time-lapse animation using the silkscreen printing machine, Risograph. We explore his creative process and uncover the inspirations that led him down this distinctive artistic path.
01
How did you develop your style of animation?
There are many situations where you would want to use analogue expression, but due to budget and scheduling constraints, you have to rely on digitally processed effects and image textures.
I have a feeling that continuous research is being conducted into how to express realistic textures digitally. However digital textures are not the only option. If you want the texture of paper, use paper. This simple idea led me to my current style.
“3D and 2D motion seems to be two different genres in Japan compared to the UK, where I feel that the two are more beautifully fused together to form the motion genre.”
02
How does motion design differ from Japan to the UK?
This is a very interesting topic! When I hear about motion design I have the impression that in the UK, 3D is widely used, while in Japan 2D motion design is more of a staple. Furthermore, 3D and 2D motion seems to be two different genres in Japan compared to the UK, where I feel that the two are more beautifully fused together to form the motion genre. For that reason, motion design in the UK feels more crafted.
03
What was your first exposure to motion design?
Around 20 years old, I was invited to a small music event to do some VJing organised by a friend. As a VJ artist, I had to prepare appropriate movie clips to match the music beat. I needed some inspiration so I started to watch lots of videos, through which I unknowingly became exposed to the world of motion design.
“I remember when I watched the video for ‘Breakbot - Baby I’m Yours’, it sent an electric shock through my body. I want to be a creator who can give that experience to the next generation.”
04
Which brand would you like to work with in the future and why?
I want to make music videos. The works from French music label Ed Banger records in particular, has had a huge influence on me.
I remember when I watched the video for ‘Breakbot - Baby I’m Yours’, it sent an electric shock through my body. I want to be a creator who can give that experience to the next generation.
“I also think its important to look at lots of different genres of work, not just what you like. Most importantly the work needs to resonate and move you.”
05
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far as a motion designer?
It is important to expose yourself to a lot of work. In fact, when I began motion design journey, I challenged myself to like 1,000 videos on Vimeo, which proved to be very educational. I also think its important to look at lots of different genres of work, not just what you like. Most importantly the work needs to resonate and move you.
