Dear readers,

We are delighted to present you the first MIRA Newsletter. We have gone a long way since 2013 when two young graduate students decided to organize a workshop. Since then, MIRA co-hosted events in Japan and Europe on an annual basis, published five issues of the Mutual Images Journal, and worked with an increasingly large network of fellow researchers from all over the world.

Because we are growing with more and more events, new active members, new places to visit and always new subjects to study, we tought that the newsletter will allow all members of MIRA’s network to keep updated on the latest events, publications and news of MIRA but also from MIRA members. We also have a dedicated section of “mutual images” – themed events and publications.

You will be able to read all about our annual Spring “Mutual Images Worskhop”, which 7th edition will take place in Vigo University, Spain (spoiler alert!). In addition, we will be having punctual events in autumn all over the globe, you will read more about those in the next newsletter.

We also introduce a novelty: a summer school. MIRA’s goal to encourage research among students and give a voice to young researchers has always been central to our work. We hope with the summer school, not only to share the knowledge of the teaching team, but also their passion for research and for Japan. The Call For Participation is still open. Don’t miss it!

And because, it’s never enough with us, we will start a new section in Mutual Images Journal: a series of interviews from people working in the manga and anime industry: from translators to producers. You will be able to read them starting in issue n°6 (June 2019).

In this newsletter, we will introduce the newest active members of MIRA. They joined the editorial or scientific boards of Mutual Images Journal or the team of volunteers that help run the association. Without them, MIRA wouldn’t exist. Thank you for your precious participation, giving us time and energy.

I also want to thank the editorial and scientific board members, the peer-reviewers and the proof-readers who help to make Mutual Images Journal possible. Their knowledge and time are greatly appreciated.

I wish you a pleasant reading and hope to see you at one of our future events !