Katoh Naoyuki is a veteran Japanese artist/mecha designer who has contributed to many science fiction illustrations since the 1970s, notably cover art for the Japanese editions of sci-fi novels like Starship Troopers. I previously featured his art work in the “Panzer Angel Gabriel” art book review. His distinctive mecha designs have also been released as models and resin kits.

(above and below) Many of Katoh-san’s mecha designs and suits are very organic in nature and definitely remind me of HR Giger’s work.

(below right) Katoh-san cites his artistic influences – paintings by the great Alma-Tadema and John William Waterhouse.

Katoh Naoyuki’s illustrations remind me of those quaint old sci-fiction films from the 80s and I’ve always found his mecha designs visually intriguing and quite attractive; a refreshing break from the overly sleek and largely cookie-cutter looks of recent science fiction.

It’s a pity the print size of the book is quite a bit smaller than your usual A4 sized art book, which makes appreciation of the illustrations less than ideal.

“Katoh Naoyuki – Sci-Fi Artist SF画家加藤直之―美女・メカ・パワードスーツ” art book details :

– Dimensions – 8.2 x 5.9 x 0.6 inches
– Softcover, 198 pages
– Full color, in Japanese language

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