From the release:

Nexus Studios is delighted to announce the signing of Trash Studio to Maison Hanko, the creative talent house specializing in contemporary Japanese animation and design for entertainment and branded content.

Trash Studio is made up of animators and creators whose extensive credits are listed in many of the greatest Ghibli films of all time. The collective was founded by Producer Yoichiro Kugimiya who was joined by renowned Director Yoshiharu Sato later in 2004 and they have since brought the anime tradition to a range of projects for commercial commissioners.

Yoshiharu Sato’s career flourished at Studio Ghibli as animation director for My Neighbour Totoro followed by the features Kiki’s Delivery Service, Porco Rosso and The Secret Life Of Arrietty as a key animator, alongside many other anime classics.

The pair regularly collaborates with many of Japan’s leading creatives on branded content, including Akihiko Yamashita, renowned animator and character designer for numerous Ghibli films including Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Tales from Earthsea, The Secret World of Arrietty, Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea and The Wind Rises. More recently, he directed Modest Heroes – Invisible, which saw him pick up the ‘Best Emerging Animation Director’ title at Japan Media Arts Festival.

Trash Studio is the latest name to join Maison Hanko which was set up by Nexus Studios to provide unique opportunities for international commissioners to collaborate with outstanding Japan-based directors and illustrators for development, production and co-production.

Nexus Studios Founder and Executive Creative Director Christopher O’Reilly explains, “Trash Studios is home to talents who have contributed to anime films that have delighted millions across the world. They bring a deep expertise in craft and animation art and we’re honored to be collaborating with them.”