Speaking and Fees
Kofi Bazzell-Smith is an internationally recognized artist, educator, and professional speaker specializing in manga storytelling, global art education, and U.S.-Japan cultural exchange. He has spoken at institutions such as Princeton University, The Asia Society, UCLA, and The International House of Japan.
Whether you’re hosting a university lecture, workshop, or panel discussion, Kofi delivers engaging and thoughtful presentations.
Speaking Topics
✅ Creating Manga & Visual Storytelling – A deep dive into the creative and technical process and idiosyncrasies of manga-making.
✅ Manga as a Global Art Form – The evolution of manga outside Japan and its impact worldwide.
✅Visual Communication and Design- How to tell stories with words and pictures.
Speaking Topics
✅ Creative Cultural Exchange – Bridging cultures through artmaking and global engagement.
✅ The Business of Being a Mangaka – Breaking into the industry, publishing, and building an artistic career.
✅ How to Draw ANYTHING- for beginners.
✅ Japanese Language for Beginners–
syntax, phonetics, and structure of Japanese.
Rates
In-Person Events
✈ Lecture: $2,000+ travel/accommodation
✈ Panel Discussion: $1500+ travel/accommodation
✈ Full-Day Workshop (4-6 hrs): $3,000+ travel/accommodation
✈ 2-week In-person Course $15,000+ travel/accommodation
Virtual Events
🎤 Lecture (60-90 min): $1000
🎤 Panel Discussion (45-60 min): $500
🎤 Workshop (90 min - 3 hrs): $1500
Special rates are available for universities, non-profits, and multi-event bookings.
