Mahiro Maeda, born on March 14, 1963, is a celebrated Japanese animator, director, character designer, and manga artist whose work has left a lasting mark on both Japanese and global animation. Over the course of his career, Maeda has become known for his versatility, visionary aesthetics, and ability to bridge the worlds of traditional and modern visual storytelling.
He began his journey in animation at the world-renowned Studio Ghibli, where he contributed to landmark films such as Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, Castle in the Sky, and Porco Rosso. His early work established him as a skilled animator with a keen sense of detail and narrative visual language. He later became one of the core creative forces at Studio GONZO, where he directed influential titles such as Blue Submarine No. 6, Final Fantasy: Unlimited, and the visually groundbreaking Gankutsuou: The Count of Monte Cristo.
In addition to his directorial achievements, Maeda’s talent as a designer is equally recognized. He played a pivotal role in the design of the Angels in Neon Genesis Evangelion, contributed to the mechanical and character designs in The Vision of Escaflowne, Last Exile, and other acclaimed series. His contributions also extended beyond Japanese animation; he directed key segments of The Animatrix and created animated sequences for Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill: Vol. 1.
Maeda’s work is characterized by a bold fusion of classical and contemporary aesthetics, creating imaginative worlds that challenge and inspire. His influence has been felt not only in anime but also in live-action cinema, and he is widely regarded as one of the most visually innovative minds in the industry.
To commemorate his vast career, Maeda has released his first solo art book, Zatsu: Mahiro Maeda Art Collection, a stunning compilation that spans more than 40 years of creative work. The collection includes early concept sketches, development drawings, large-format illustrations, and many previously unpublished works, offering a rare glimpse into his creative process. More than just an art book, it is a visual biography that documents his evolution as an artist and storyteller.
In conjunction with the book’s release, a special exhibition titled Zatsu: Mahiro Maeda is being held at PARCO FACTORY in Ikebukuro, with plans to tour other cities including Nagoya and Osaka. The exhibition will showcase highlights from the book and offer exclusive merchandise, including a deluxe limited-edition version of the collection designed especially for collectors and fans.
Through this art book and exhibition, audiences can engage with the full breadth of Maeda’s artistic vision and appreciate the profound impact he has made on animation and design. It is a celebration of a master artist who continues to inspire across generations.
