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 The International House of Japan, UCLA, Ritsumeikan University, Temple University Japan, The High Museum of Art, Middlebury College, and University of Texas at Austin.
Whether you’re hosting a university lecture, corporate event, workshop, or panel discussion, Kofi delivers engaging, high-impact presentations tailored to your audience.
Speaking Topics
Kofi offers keynote talks, lectures, and workshops on topics such as:
✅ 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.
Custom topics can be arranged upon request.
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– Dive into the syntax, phonetics, and structure of Japanese.
Custom topics can be arranged upon request.
Rates
In-Person Events
✈ Keynote Lecture: $3,000 + travel/accommodation
✈ Panel Discussion: $2,500 + travel/accommodation
✈ Full-Day Workshop (4-6 hrs): $4,000+ travel/accommodation
Virtual Events
🎤 Keynote Lecture (60-90 min): $2,500
🎤 Panel Discussion (45-60 min): $1,000
🎤 Workshop (90 min - 3 hrs): $2,000
Special rates are available for universities, non-profits, and multi-event bookings.
