Singapore-Based Studio Kasagi Labo Presents Original Sci-Fi Film Ars Gratia
Singapore-based young and dynamic animation studio Kasagi Labo has officially announced a brand new original sci-fi film project, Ars Gratia. The project stands out because renowned artist Ilya Kuvshinov, known especially for his character designs and visual aesthetic, will be in the director's chair. Kuvshinov will also handle the film's character designs. The news was shared by Anime News Network on June 24, 2026.
Ilya Kuvshinov is especially known for his character design work on projects such as Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045 and WIT Studio's Vampire in the Garden. The Russian-born artist also has a large worldwide fanbase for his independent digital illustrations and manga-style drawings. The fact that Kuvshinov will be directing a feature-length film for the first time with this project is seen as a significant milestone in both the artist's and the studio's career.
Kasagi Labo is a relatively new studio founded in Singapore in 2020. Having previously made a name for itself with short films and commercial work, the studio is undertaking its first large-scale original cinematic project with Ars Gratia. The studio's goal of becoming a new animation hub in the Asia-Pacific region becomes more concrete with this project. The support from the Singaporean government for creative industries especially allows initiatives like Kasagi Labo to grow on the international stage.
Although detailed information about the film's story has not yet been shared, the project's title Ars Gratia (referencing the Latin phrase ars gratia artis, meaning "art for art's sake") hints that the film will present a story prioritizing visuals and aesthetic concerns, perhaps set in a dystopian future. The production's visual style is expected to be filled with Kuvshinov's signature bright colors, soft lighting, and impressive backgrounds.
This announcement comes at a time when demand for original anime films has been increasing in recent years. Investments by platforms such as Netflix and Crunchyroll in original content encourage independent studios to produce bold projects. Although no release date or distributor has been announced for Ars Gratia yet, more details about the project (concept art, cast, perhaps a teaser) are expected to be shared in the coming months. Both Kuvshinov fans and lovers of quality sci-fi animation should definitely keep an eye on this project.
