The art genre in anime can be classified as a form of visual craft that emphasizes creativity and expression through color, composition, and design. It encompasses various styles, such as realism, impressionism, surrealism, and abstract art.
Art anime typically focuses on the fine details of characters and environments with an eloquent flair, including real-life lessons that one understands. This genre often merges traditional Japanese culture with contemporary design elements, creating charmingly unique pieces.
The use of digital art in this genre has allowed artists to incorporate more symmetrical designs using bold lines, vibrant colors, and subtle shadows, delivering stunning animation sequences that are distinctively different from other animation genres.
Furthermore, the art genre in anime celebrates individuality. It often deals with deep themes like self-discovery and transformation, making it appealing to audiences worldwide. Several people love art very much, and especially for those, we have 15 Best Anime about Art. So, let’s get started.
#15 GA Geijutsuka Art Design Class
Number of episodes: 12
Number of seasons: 1
What art is GA Geijutsuka Art Design Class about: Learning art and different techniques
I guess you might be missing some creativity. Still, I don’t worry, GA Geijutsuka Art Design Class is an anime that explores the imaginative journeys of a high school girls’ group pursuing their passion for art and design. This anime will increase your creativity as well. The story follows the everyday lives of these students, each with unique personalities and approaches to art.
The series delves deep into the creative process, exploring topics such as color theory, perspective, and composition in a visually stunning way. Along the way, the girls learn from each other’s strengths and weaknesses, constantly challenging themselves to improve their skills.
Through comedic moments and heartfelt interactions, GA Geijutsuka Art Design Class showcases the beauty and complexity of creating art while emphasizing the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and having fun in pursuing one’s artistic dreams. Overall, this anime is perfect for an artist or anyone looking for inspiration in their creative endeavors.
#14 Welcome to the Ballroom
Number of episodes: 24
Number of seasons: 1
What Art is Welcome to the Ballroom about: Ballroom dance
Have you heard of ballroom dancing, or are you interested in knowing about this traditional dance form?
Welcome to the Ballroom is precisely what you need to know everything about ballroom dancing. This is the story of Tatara Fujita, an ordinary high school student who discovers his passion for ballroom dancing after being saved from bullies by a professional dancer.
The plot follows Tatara’s journey as he trains and competes in national dance competitions with his partner, Shizuku Hanaoka while facing challenges such as talented opponents and his own insecurities.
Through his determination and the guidance of experienced dancers such as Sengoku Hiroshi and Kiyoharu Hyodo, Tatara slowly honed his skills and learned what it truly means to become a great dancer.
Along with its engaging plotline, the animation style in Welcome to the Ballroom effectively captures the beauty and intensity of ballroom dancing which leaves a lasting impression on the viewers.
#13 Shirobako
Number of episodes: 24
Number of seasons: 1
What Art SHIROBAKO is about: Making an anime
Shirobako is an anime that pursues the lives and careers of young women in the anime industry. The show explores various aspects of the animation process, from scriptwriting and storyboarding to voice acting and directing.
The plot also delves into the personal struggles and relationships of each character as they navigate their way through the demanding and competitive world of anime production. Through its engaging narrative and compelling characters, Shirobako offers a unique insight into the anime industry’s inner workings while shedding light on themes such as friendship, perseverance, and creative passion.
With its authentic portrayal of the challenges faced by animators and its heartfelt exploration of what it means to pursue one’s dreams, Shirobako has become a beloved favorite among fans of both anime and storytelling alike.
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#12 Sound! Euphonium
Number of episodes: 26
Number of seasons: 2
What art is Sound! Euphonium about: Playing and learning the Euphonium
There are so many musical tools, and one of those instruments that is super hard to learn and master is the Euphonium. The “Sound! Euphonium” anime plot follows Kumiko Oumae, a high school student who joins her school’s brass band club. Initially lacking enthusiasm for the instrument she plays, the Euphonium, Kumiko soon discovers a passion for music and strives to improve alongside her fellow club members.
As they prepare for competitions and performances, the anime dives into the struggles and internal conflicts of the young musicians, portraying their dedication to music as well as their insecurities and relationships with each other.
The story highlights teamwork, self-discovery, perseverance, and the power of music to unite people. Its realistic portrayal of the high school music scene has garnered praise from both musicians and non-musicians alike, making it an inspiring watch for anyone seeking a relatable coming-of-age story with well-crafted characters and stunning musical performances.
#11 The Garden of Words
Type: Movie
Runtime: 46 minutes
What art is the Garden of Words about: Making the Perfect Shoe
Not all love stories have a happy journey; some couples face problems, but they stick together and become an example. The Garden of Words is a beautiful, contemplative anime movie that delves into loneliness, longing, and relationships. The story follows Takao, a 15-year-old boy who dreams of becoming a shoemaker, and Yukari, a woman in her late 20s who seems lost and disconnected from the world.
They meet each other by chance in a quiet garden on rainy mornings, where they both seek refuge from their problems at school and work. They develop an intimate friendship built on mutual understanding and vulnerability throughout several meetings.
However, their relationship is complicated by their age difference, societal expectations, and personal struggles with identity and purpose. As they navigate their emotions toward each other, they also learn to confront their fears, find solace in nature, and rediscover hope for the future.
With nuanced characters, stunning visuals, and a poignant score, The Garden of Words is an emotional journey that explores the depths of human connection amidst the chaos of modern life.
#10 Arte
Number of episodes: 12
Number of seasons: 1
What art is Arte about: Painting
Everyone likes painting, but not everyone can do it, but there is a girl who is a painting queen. This is the story of a young Italian girl named Arte who aspires to become a painter during the 16th-century Renaissance era. The anime depicts Arte’s determination and perseverance in pursuing her dream despite societal restrictions placed on women at that time.
Along the way, Arte faces various challenges, such as gender discrimination, financial difficulties, and rejection by male-dominated art guilds. She also meets supportive individuals who guide her through self-discovery and self-actualization.
The plot is infused with historical themes, including cultural norms and artistic achievements during the Italian Renaissance period. The anime presents an inspiring tale of overcoming obstacles to follow one’s passions and fulfill personal aspirations, making it a compelling narrative for viewers from all walks of life.
#9 Monthly Girls Nozaki-Kun
Number of episodes: 12
Number of seasons: 1
What art is Monthly Girls Nozaki-Kun about: Writing and creating a manga
Monthly Girls Nozaki-Kun is a romantic comedy anime about Sakura Chiyo, a high school girl who develops a crush on her classmate, Nozaki Umetarou. After confessing her feelings to him, Chiyo discovers that Nozaki is actually a famous shoujo manga artist known as Sakiko Yumeno.
The anime follows their antics as Chiyo helps Nozaki with his manga work while trying to get closer to him romantically. Along the way, they also encounter various quirky characters, such as Mikoshiba Mikoto, Nozaki’s handsome but clueless friend who serves as inspiration for one of his manga characters.
With its unique spin on the typical school-life romance genre, Monthly Girls Nozaki-Kun delivers witty humor and heartwarming moments, making it an enjoyable watch for fans of anime romcoms.
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#8 Sketchbook: Full Colors
Number of episodes: 12
Number of seasons: 1
What art is Sketchbook about: Full Colors about: Sketching
It takes a lot of practice and concentration to do perfect drawing or sketching, and this anime will tell you exactly how difficult yet fun it is to draw.
Sketchbook: Full Colors is a fascinating anime series about high school students who share a passion for art. The show follows the journey of Sora Kajiwara, an aspiring artist who starts attending an art club after she discovers her talent for drawing.
Throughout the series, viewers witness Sora’s growth and development as an artist, as well as the challenges and triumphs that come along with pursuing one’s dreams. The anime also explores various art-related themes, including creativity, self-expression, and the importance of perseverance.
With its vibrant animation style, relatable characters, and insightful commentary on the creative process, Sketchbook: Full Colors is a must-watch for any fan of anime or art.
#7 Honey and Clover
Number of episodes: 36
Number of seasons: 2
What art is Honey and Clover about: Pretty much everything
Following the lives of five college students as they navigate personal and professional challenges, The story revolves around Yuta Takemoto, an art student who falls in love with his classmate, Hagumi Hanamoto, while dealing with his financial struggles.
The story also focuses on the complex relationships among their friends, including Takumi Mayama and Ayumi Yamada, who both face romantic hurdles and career setbacks. As they transition from being carefree students to working adults, the characters must confront their fears and insecurities while balancing their passions and responsibilities.
Honey and Clover presents a realistic portrayal of life’s ups and downs through its relatable characters and thoughtful storytelling.
#6 Nana
Number of episodes: 47
Number of seasons: 1
What art is Nana about: Music and love
There are N different types of relationships, couples, and emotions, but what will happen when all these things come together in one anime?
Nana shows us the lives of two girls, Nana Komatsu, and Nana Osaki, who meet on a train to Tokyo. The two women are polar opposites in personality, with Nana Komatsu being a naive and optimistic girl dreaming of a fairytale romance. At the same time, Nana Osaki is a tough rocker with a dark past.
Despite their differences, they become roommates and form a strong bond as they navigate through adulthood with all its triumphs and troubles. The series tackles themes such as love, friendship, betrayal, music, and personal growth in a mature and realistic manner.
As the story progresses, we witness the complex relationships unraveling, and the characters face difficult decisions that force them to confront their fears and insecurities head-on.
Overall, Nana anime is an emotional roller coaster that leaves viewers invested in the lives of its well-developed main characters.
#5 Bakuman
Number of episodes: 75
Number of seasons: 3
What art is Bakuman about: Creating a manga
Being a manga artist takes work. You don’t know if you’ll succeed or even if your manga will become popular, but working hard is the key to success.
Presenting Moritaka Mashiro and Akito Takagi, who team up to become manga artists. The show concentrates on their journey as they work towards achieving their dream of creating a successful manga series and getting it published in the popular Shonen Jump magazine.
Along the way, they face challenges such as writer’s block, competition from other aspiring artists, financial difficulties, and personal relationships, which add depth to the plot. The anime accurately portrays how the manga industry in Japan works, with intricacies such as editors and publishers being heavily involved in every step of the production process.
Bakuman is an insightful and riveting depiction of what it takes to be successful in a highly competitive industry while staying true to oneself.
#4 Barakamon
Number of episodes: 12
Number of seasons: 1
What art is Barakamon about: Calligraphy
Everyone values talent, but no one appreciates someone who isn’t nice to others and thinks only of themselves. This story will make you realize that talent without kindness and patience is nothing.
Barakamon is a Japanese anime series that follows the story of a talented but self-centered calligrapher, Seishu Handa, who is sent to a small village on the Goto Islands as punishment for punching an egotistical critic. In this remote location, Handa finds himself in a completely different environment with fun-loving and friendly villagers who are intrigued by his unique character.
Throughout the series, he experiences personal growth through interactions with the locals and discovers new perspectives on life and art.
Barakamon offers a heartwarming and humorous portrayal of self-discovery, cultural exchange, and the triumphs of artistic expression. The plot unfolds through vibrant landscapes, charming characters, clever dialogue, and engaging storylines that draw audiences into Handa’s journey toward achieving both artistic excellence and personal fulfillment.
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#3 Showa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu
Number of episodes: 25
Number of seasons: 2
What art is Showa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu about: Traditional Japanese storytelling
Most people get a second chance in life. If you take that chance and make things right, your life will be much better. This is about a guy who didn’t let go of this second chance.
Showa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is an anime about the world of Rakugo, a traditional form of Japanese storytelling. The story follows the life and career of Yotaro, a former yakuza member who discovers his love for Rakugo while in prison.
With the guidance of Yakumo, a master rakugo storyteller, Yotaro learns the art and takes on the name “Sukeroku.” However, their relationship is tense as Yakumo harbors a dark past and secrets related to his former partner, Sukeroku, from years ago.
As Yotaro’s popularity grows in the entertainment industry, conflicts arise between him and others vying for success in the field. Meanwhile, Yakumo struggles with his own demons as he grapples with betrayal from those close to him.
The series explores complex themes such as identity, legacy, loyalty, and honesty through its well-crafted characters and nuanced storyline.
#2 Your Lie in April
Number of episodes: 22
Number of seasons: 1
What art is Your Lie in April about: Living and music
Get ready to cry your lungs out because this will open a void inside your heart that you won’t be able to fill easily.
Your Lie in April is a Japanese anime series that revolves around the life of Kosei Arima, a talented young pianist who loses the ability to hear the sound of a piano after the death of his abusive mother. He decides to quit playing until he meets a free-spirited violinist named Kaori Miyazono.
Through her music and persistent efforts, Kaori helps Kosei reconnect with his passion for music and gradually becomes his inspiration. The story takes an emotional turn when it is revealed that Kaori has a terminal illness, and she tries to fulfill her dreams by performing a duet with Kosei at a prestigious competition before it’s too late.
The show beautifully portrays various themes, such as the power of love, pain, loss, and self-discovery, through breathtaking musical performances, heartwarming relationships, and gripping storytelling.
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#1 Blue Period
Number of episodes: 12
Number of seasons: 1
What art is Blue Period about: Finding yourself
Some people don’t know their passion and lack motivation in life, but at some point, they find something that makes them happy.
Yatora Yaguchi excels in academics but lacks passion and direction in life until he discovers his talent for painting. The narrative centers around Yatora’s journey to pursue his newfound love for art and become a successful artist, overcoming various obstacles, such as his family’s disapproval and conflicting interests with his peers.
The anime portrays young artists’ emotional struggles in navigating their lives while seeking creative expression. It also delves into deeper themes like self-discovery, aspiration, and identity formation through Yatora’s character development arc.
With its stunning visuals and realistic portrayals of art creation, “Blue Period” delivers a powerful narrative that appeals to anime enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Regardless of how unconventional it may seem to others, This series not only explores Yatora’s personal journey but also serves as an inspiring note to passionate creators everywhere seeking to find their true calling.
In the above countdown, we have mentioned the best art anime, but those are not the only ones out there with art as their central theme. The list below has even more anime-related art that you should check.
We are creating this list because you might have watched a few or all of the ones above. After all, they are popular. We don’t want to disappoint you, so by creating this list; you can have more choices to choose from.
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Best Art Anime Recommendations
Anime | Episodes | Seasons | Studio |
GA Geijutsuka Art Design Class | 12 | 1 | AIC Plus+ |
Welcome to the Ballroom | 24 | 1 | Production I.g. |
The Garden of Words | 46 Minutes | – | CoMix Wave Films |
SHIROBAKO | 24 | 1 | P.A. Works |
Sound! Euphonium | 26 | 2 | Kyoto Animation |
Arte | 12 | 1 | Seven Arcs |
Monthly Girls Nozaki-kun | 12 | 1 | Doga Kobo |
Sketchbook: Full Color’s | 12 | 1 | Hal Film Maker |
Honey and Clover | 36 | 2 | J.C. Staff |
Nana | 47 | 1 | Madhouse |
Bakuman | 75 | 3 | J.C. Staff |
Barakamon | 12 | 1 | Kinema Citrus |
Showa Genroku Rakugo Shinju | 25 | 2 | Studio Deen |
Your Lie in April | 22 | 1 | A-1 Pictures |
Blue Period | 12 | 1 | Seven Arcs |
The Art Club Has A Problem | 12 | 1 | Feel |
Mononoke | 12 | 1 | Toei Animations |
Kakushigoto | 12 | 1 | Ajia-Do |
Magic Kyun! Renaissance | 13 | 1 | Sunrise |
Apart from mentioning the best art anime, we are also providing details such as total episodes and seasons so you can pick the ones you’ll be comfortable with, or you can just pick from your favorite studio from the table.
Well, We hope you found the best art anime to watch right now from our recommendations. Do let us know which ones on our countdown are your favorite ones.