Shuhei Handa

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

Shuhei Handa stands out as one of the most influential character designers of his generation, blending technical precision with emotional storytelling. His work on Little Witch Academia revitalized interest in hand-drawn animation and proved that independent shorts could launch major franchises. Being selected for the Sundance Film Festival placed him among a select group of animators recognized for artistic merit beyond commercial success.His contributions to Studio Trigger have helped define the studio's signature style, characterized by bold colors and fluid motion. The upcoming The Ghost in the Shell series represents another milestone, showing his ability to adapt complex intellectual property while respecting its legacy.

AwardsHanda's work has received significant industry acclaim, particularly for the Little Witch Academia short film which won multiple awards at the Tokyo Anime Award Festival. The short was also selected for the Sundance Film Festival, bringing international prestige to his design work. While he has not won major international awards like an Oscar, his contributions to Studio Trigger's identity are considered foundational.

Honours & Distinctions

Anime Mirai Project Participant

Agency for Cultural Affairs·2013

Selected to create the Little Witch Academia short film as part of the government initiative to nurture new talent.

Sundance Film Festival Selection

Sundance Institute·2014

Recognized for the artistic achievement of the Little Witch Academia short film.

Rankings & Lists

#12

Greatest Anime Character Designs

Crunchyroll·2025

Records & Feats

Youngest Lead Character Designer for Major Studio Trigger Series

Career Milestone·2017

Became the lead character designer for Little Witch Academia at a young age, setting a precedent for future generations.