【Product Description】
One of the most iconic elements in the work of Mizumaru Anzai is the single, straight horizontal line—on which his favorite motifs are perfectly placed, creating a distinctive world of illustration that is uniquely his own. As an illustrator, Anzai was active across a wide range of media including advertising, magazines, and book covers. With a minimalist touch that conveyed humor and sharp wit, his work continues to be cherished and admired to this day.
This calendar features a curated selection of Anzai’s most representative illustrations, handpicked from the tens of thousands of originals he left behind. Each of the 12 monthly pairings combines a seasonal illustration with a thoughtful quote from Anzai himself, offering a quiet visual dialogue throughout the year. More than just a calendar, it serves as a stylish addition to any space—infusing daily life with a gentle and humorous artistic presence.
About the Artist – Mizumaru Anzai (1942–2014)
Born in Tokyo, Mizumaru Anzai was a beloved Japanese illustrator. After graduating from Nihon University College of Art, he worked at Dentsu, the New York design firm ADAC, and as an art director at Heibonsha. In 1981, he became a freelance illustrator and gained wide acclaim for his work in advertising, magazine covers, book designs, and more.
Beyond illustration, Anzai was also a prolific writer of novels, essays, manga, and picture books. His works remain highly popular and widely read. He received numerous awards including the Asahi Advertising Award, Mainichi Advertising Award, Japan Graphic Exhibition’s Annual Artist Award, and the Kinema Junpo Readers’ Prize. From 2005 until his passing, he served as chairman of the Tokyo Illustrators Society, contributing greatly to the growth of Japan’s illustration scene.
His notable publications include the novel Amaryllis, essay collection Tabitabi no Tabi, picture books Gatan Goton Gatan Goton and The Cookie’s Lunch Shop, and manga such as Aoi no Jidai and The Complete Ordinary People. His career is comprehensively collected in Illustrator Mizumaru Anzai, and A Single Horizon pairs words and illustrations to convey his personal reflections and creative philosophy.
【Details】
Illustrator: Mizumaru Anzai
Publisher: Crevis
Publication Year: 2025
Dimensions: 30 × 30 cm
Format: Paperback
Pages: 28 pages