Animation Creators 100 [Japanese]

By 芸術新聞社

A convergence of creative power for a new era.

In a time when independent and small-team production is rapidly expanding, ANIMATION CREATORS 100 brings together the expressions, perspectives, and worldviews of 100 animation creators in one volume.

This book delves deeply into each creator's background, beliefs, and creative process, revealing the richness and limitless potential of animation as a form of expression.

It is also highly recommended as a guidebook for those beginning creative work in animation, illustration, picture books, and related fields.

Featured Creators

From rising talents producing music videos, TV series, and theatrical animation, to independent artists who have built unique worlds through SNS-distributed short films and GIF animations--this volume highlights 100 must-watch creators shaping today's animation landscape.

With no boundaries between professional and independent creators, the book covers a wide range of genres and styles across the most exciting voices working today.

Contents Selected Works & Key Scenes
Carefully curated works and new pieces are presented through frame captures. Every page reveals characters, backgrounds, environments, and narratives--offering a rich visual experience. Production Materials
Character designs, storyboards, setting materials, and other behind-the-scenes assets are included, offering insight into the creative process rarely seen by the public. Profiles, Information & Messages
Each creator's profile is accompanied by personal messages, sharing their artistic intentions and encouragement for aspiring creators. QR Video Content
Selected works can also be viewed as videos via QR codes, allowing readers to experience the animations in motion. Concept & Background

Animation production has undergone unprecedented expansion alongside rapid advances in digital technology. Today, anyone with a smartphone can share their work with the world, dramatically expanding the possibilities of expression.

Demand for animation continues to grow steadily across music videos, promotional films, short films, and feature-length productions. However, the creators driving this dynamic industry have often remained relatively invisible.

From commercial studios to independent artists, these diverse creators embody the true potential of the field, yet comprehensive documentation of their work has been limited.

This book was conceived as a step toward changing that situation. It brings together the creative activities, philosophies, and future visions of 100 creators who pursue their own expression regardless of affiliation or title.

We hope this volume will serve as a source of inspiration for those aspiring to work in animation, illustration, or any form of creative production.

Cover Illustration

Hurray , an animation production team known for combining hand-drawn animation, 3DCG, and motion graphics to create highly expressive, message-driven works. Their feature film A Few Moments of Cheers was released in 2024.

This book also includes an in-depth interview at the end, exploring Hurray 's creative journey, the philosophy behind their small-team production style, their future outlook, and the ideas behind the cover illustration.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: Japanese
• ISBN: 4875867174
• ISBN13: 9784875867173
• Release Date: March 2025
• Publisher: Geijutsu Shinbunsha Co., Ltd.
• Length: 218 Pages