Last week I had the amazing opportunity to meet one of the most revered artists in the world of video games.  And I owe it all to my wife, as it was she who found the article in the Friday, October 13th newspaper.  The cover of the entertainment section featured a beautiful full-page image of artwork with the title, "Living In a Fantasy: ‘Final Fantasy’ artist gives one-man show in Sarasota". 

If you haven’t guessed yet, we’re talking about Yoshitaka Amano, who provided the character designs for each of the first six Final Fantasy games and concept artwork for all of the following sequels.  The article stated that Amano would be in town that night to kick off an art gallery show of his work.  I knew I had to attend; this was too incredible of an opportunity to miss.  Once again, I have to send up thanks to my wife who greatly facilitated my ability to make it to the show that night; not only did she drive me to the event (as I am new to the area), but she also convinced me to go when I thought it would be too late to make it on time. 

Thankfully, I did arrive in time, although not long before Amano had to leave.  In the short amount of time I had, I was able to admire (and snap some pictures of) the amazing pieces of his artwork on display.

Some of his work was instantly recognizable from the Final Fantasy game manuals.

There was a gift shop in the lobby, with books of Amano’s artwork for sale.  I purchased The Tale of Genji, his stunning visual interpretation of the famous one-thousand year old Japanese novel.  Thrilled to find that Amano was signing books, I patiently waited in line with my newly acquired hard-back. 

I took note of the time, and got worried.  He was only supposed to be there from five o’clock to eight, yet it was well past eight-thirty, and there were still about ten people ahead of me in line.  I know that ten doesn’t sound like much, but it was sure taking long enough for each of those signings he was doing.  What was he doing?  Then I realized that he was not only signing his name, but drawing full page sketches for each as well! 

Now I was really excited!  And to round out such a brief but unforgettable evening, I did make it up to Mr. Amano …

… and get my book signed!

After he handed the book back to me, I was able to earnestly make use of some of the only Japanese I know: “Domo arigato gozaimasu”!