Everyday Scenes from a Parallel World: Background Illustrations and Scenes by Up-and-coming Creators

The beauty of the scenes and backgrounds in anime and manga certainly deserve more recognition than they have received in the past.

This unusual series is the first collection that turns the spotlight on the scenes and background illustrations exclusively. With only a few characters in ordinary clothes, attention is focused on the beauty of the illustrated backgrounds.

This first book in a two-volume series is a collection of background artworks featuring familiar scenes from daily life: nostalgic townscapes, detailed architecture, rooms that look like doll houses, etc. The illustrations are extremely realistic and detailed - almost like photographs - but at the same time give readers the sense that we are looking at images of a parallel world.

The works featured in this title are by 39 well-known, mostly Japanese creators, illustrators and animators. Some creators featured have made their entire careers specializing in drawing backgrounds.

In addition, a section that explains drawing techniques and materials used is included. Profiles of creators with messages from each, descriptions of each creator’s techniques and preferred materials are written in both Japanese and English text.

This stunning collection will appeal to all art lovers and is sure to bring creators massive inspiration, too.