Building focus through anime model makingーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• Gunpla (Gampura): A portmanteau of "Gundam" and "plastic model," referring to model kits based on the Japanese anime series Mobile Suit Gundam.
• Panel Lining: A technique used in Gunpla building to accentuate details on the model by applying paint or markers into recessed lines.
• MGSD Aerial: A specific, relatively complex Gunpla model kit mentioned in the report.
• Customization: The ability to modify and personalize Gunpla models beyond the standard build.
• Seam Lines: Visible lines on a Gunpla model where plastic parts connect, often smoothed out during building.

Afterschool Gunpla Workshops in New York City: A Detailed Report

Introduction

This report details a growing trend in New York City: afterschool workshops centered around Gunpla (Gundam plastic models). The report, filed by NHK World’s Inoyuki, highlights the workshop’s appeal to children aged 8-15, the skills they develop, and the perspectives of both the workshop founder and participating parents. The program is gaining popularity as a focused, hands-on activity in a world dominated by digital distractions.

The Workshop & Its Origins

The workshop, located in Brooklyn, offers weekly 2-hour sessions where children assemble Gunpla kits. The founder, Ino, a Japanese IT engineer, started the workshop after rediscovering his childhood hobby and noticing his daughter’s enthusiasm for it. He observed a demand for a creative outlet that wasn’t solely screen-based. He stated, “As any Japanese guys in my generation, I used to do this when I was a kid… my daughter enjoyed it too and to the point like she told me to start an after school program.”

Student Experiences & Skill Development

The report features interviews with students actively engaged in building Gunpla. One student was constructing the “Ra Gundam,” having already completed the torso, arms, and head. Another was working on an “MGSD Aerial,” focusing on adding details and panel lining. Students emphasized the fun of customization and the satisfaction of understanding how each piece fits together.

However, students also acknowledged the challenges. One student noted the difficulty of “figure[ing] out where a piece goes,” particularly with more complex kits, and admitted to frequently losing pieces. Instructors provide guidance on techniques ranging from basic tool usage to advanced detailing and custom part application, with a ventilated spray painting booth available for those wanting to personalize their models. Students typically complete between two and six model kits over a 10-week period.

The Benefits of Gunpla Building: Beyond the Hobby

Ino emphasizes that Gunpla building isn’t just about assembling plastic; it’s about developing a range of skills. He highlights the need for precision, painting, sanding, and seam smoothing, stating, “it requires like a lot of skills… it’s an interesting good way to start like new skills.” He also points to the cognitive benefits, noting that Gunpla provides “a lot of brain stimuli” crucial for today’s generation.

A key takeaway, articulated by Ino, is the development of patience. He explains, “One of the most important skills from Gunpla is patience because you make mistakes… you lose parts or you break parts. Like all those moments teaches you a lesson.” He draws a parallel to his work as an IT engineer, where problem-solving and iterative refinement are essential. “This is like all day of what I do… I make software, there is a bug, I need to figure out what the problem is and I solve the problem day to day.”

Parental Perspectives

Parents interviewed expressed relief at finding an activity that draws their children away from screens. One parent stated, “we’re all concerned about how much the kids are on devices… I try to make sure that he’s not on devices all the time.” They observed increased confidence and a willingness to tackle complex challenges in their children. The parent noted their child’s attitude: “He’s like, I got this. I can do this.”

Focus on Process Over Outcome

Ino’s ultimate satisfaction comes from witnessing children value the process of building, rather than solely focusing on the finished product. He observes, “I really like to see kids learn… working hard itself is a rewarding experience.” He notes that children are motivated to “perfect” their work, not for external rewards like grades or payment, but for their own personal satisfaction. “It’s just for their satisfaction they will try to perfect their work.”

Conclusion

The Gunpla workshops in Brooklyn represent a unique and increasingly popular afterschool activity. Beyond providing a creative outlet, the program fosters valuable skills like patience, problem-solving, and attention to detail. The emphasis on the building process, rather than simply the finished product, cultivates a sense of personal satisfaction and a dedication to continuous improvement. As Inoyuki concludes, Gunpla is “not a piece of cake, but a skill that goes beyond a simple hobby.”