If you’re a fan of Ghibli Studio’s animated film Whisper Of The Heart ( 耳をすませば ), you would have come across the art work of fantasy artist/painter Inoue Naoshisa. A graduate of Kanazawa College of Art, and currently a professor at Seian University of Art and Design, Inoue-san is renowned for the art work of his fantasy world IBLARD, with strong influences by Surrealism and Impressionism.

This art book explores the artist’s creative influences, his working styles, as well as conversations/discussions with other Ghibli artists, rounded up with a good collection of his art work and paintings.

(above) This art reminds me of a beautiful scene near the end of Howl’s Moving Castle, although there is no record/credit of Inoue-san’s contribution to the film. Maybe a tribute ?

(above & below) Many of Inoue-san’s art work are influenced by real life locations in his Osaka hometown of Ibaraki-shi.

(image above) The poster art for Whisper Of The Heart, with the background painted by Inoue-san.

(above & below) Inoue-san’s original idea was also adapted into a Ghibli Museum animated short film The Day I Bought A Star. I saw the short film at Ghibli Museum’s Saturn Theatre many years back and really love it.

(above) Inoue-san visits the Holbein factory in Japan on a study trip to see how their paint materials are manufactured. (below) Miyazaki Hayao serving tea to Inoue-san ( screen right ) in his home during a visit.

I love Inoue Naohisa’s art work, especially his wide vistas, a mesmerizing mix of Surrealism and Impressionism. He has many other art books which I look forward to reviewing in the near future. This one gets my highest recommendations.

“IBLARD – The World Of Inoue Naohisa Art Book 井上直久 ー世界はもっとキレイに見えるー” details :

– Dimensions – 25.7 x 18.2 x 2 cm
– Softcover, 166 pages
– Full color, in Japanese language

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