Takamura Mukuo  

Mukuo Takamura (January 1, 1938 - June 9, 1992) was a renowned art director from Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan. He graduated with a degree in Western Painting from Musashino Art University in 1963 and began his career as a background artist for animation at Tokyo Movie Studio. In 1966, he established his own studio, Mukuo Group and Mukuo Studio, which was incorporated three years later in 1971. Some of his most notable works include the feature film Cello Hiki no Gauche and Nippon Animations Haha o Tazunete Sanzenri, part of the WMT series, both directed by Takahata Isao. For the latter, he traveled to Italy and Argentina with Takahata and Miyazaki to ensure an authentic feel to the series. He also contributed significantly to science-fiction anime franchises Uchuu Senkan Yamato, Uchuu Kaizoku Captain Harlock, and Ginga Tetsudou 999. Mukuo was awarded the first grand-prix of the first anime popularity contest in the category of art, organized by Tokuma-Shoten. He won this award five times in a row until the contest was canceled, making him the only winner in the art category. Mukuo's contributions greatly accelerated the development of animation in Japan during the 1970s and 80s. Mukuo passed away from cancer on June 9, 1992, at the age of 54, while working on the Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon series. Kubota Tadao took over his position as art designer for the series, and he was also appointed representative director of Mukuo Studio. In April 2004, a posthumous book titled Takamura Mukuo The Art of Animation was released, featuring much of Mukuo's background art, image boards, and plans to masterpieces like Ginga Tetsudou 999, Haha o Tazunete Sanzenri, and Manie-Manie.