11 Best Manga Artists Who Made History: From Hiromu Arakawa to Junji Ito

Take a look at these 11 manga artists who have revolutionized the genre with their incredible masterpieces. Read on to learn more about them.

Updated on Aug 05, 2024  |  08:50 PM IST |  79.8K
Fullmetal Alchemist, Akira, One Punch Man; Image Credit: IMDb
Fullmetal Alchemist, Akira, One Punch Man; Image Credit: IMDb

Manga isn't just a genre, it's a world of art that has enthralled millions with stories ranging from fanciful tales to deep emotional journeys. However, behind these unforgettable stories are the artists who brought them to life, pouring their creativity and passion into every page. These artists are not just storytellers but magicians who transform blank pages into epic and heartfelt adventures. So let's delve into the very depths of manga and explore 11 genius artists who have irrevocably left their mark on this much-beloved medium.

11 best mangaka (manga artists) who created history with their works:

 

1. Hiromu Arakawa 

Starting with a bang, the first on our list is Hiromu Arakawa, the creative force behind Fullmetal Alchemist. Arakawa's journey into manga began on a dairy farm in Hokkaido. Perhaps it was the hard work on the farm that fueled her tenacity and imagination. 

Fullmetal Alchemist, her best work, is a blend of alchemy, adventure, and deep philosophical questions. Arakawa’s impeccable storytelling and ability to skilfully combine humor with serious themes make her a standout artist in the manga world.

 

2. Katsuhiro Otomo

Next up is Katsuhiro Otomo, the mastermind behind Akira. Otomo’s work redefined manga and anime as a genre and set new standards for both. 

His work Akira, with its dystopian vision and spectacular art, opened the world’s eyes to the potential of manga as a serious art form. Otomo’s attention to detail and dynamic artwork brings his cyberpunk futuristic vision to life, creating a world that is both terrifying and mesmerizing.

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3. Yusuke Murata

If you've ever found yourself on the edge of your seat while reading One Punch Man or Eyeshield 21, you have Yusuke Murata to thank. 

Murata’s art is dynamic, expressive, and incredibly detailed. He shows motion and emotion in a way that nobody else does. Every punch Saitama in One Punch Man throws feels like it's happening right in front of you. Murata’s work proves that a great artist can elevate a good story to a legendary one.


4. Naoki Urasawa

Naoki Urasawa is a master of suspense and complex storylines. His masterpieces include Monster, 20th Century Boys, and Pluto. Every story Urasawa has crafted keeps readers guessing until the very end. His art complements his intricate plots perfectly, with clean lines and detailed expressions that bring his characters to life.

Urasawa’s ability to weave multiple storylines into a coherent and compelling series showcases his astounding skills.

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5. Makoto Yukimura

Makoto Yukimura, the creator of Vinland Saga, takes us on a journey through Viking history with a twist with this manga. 

Yukimura’s historically accurate depiction, combined with his ability to create compelling characters and epic battles, makes Vinland Saga a must-read. His art masterfully captures the brutality and beauty of the Viking era, taking readers into a world of warriors, honor, and survival.

 

6. CLAMP

CLAMP is not a single artist but a collective of four women: Satsuki Igarashi, Ageha Ohkawa, Tsubaki Nekoi, and Mokona. Together, they have created some of the most beloved series in manga history, including Cardcaptor Sakura, X/1999, and Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle. 

CLAMP’s versatility is simply outstanding, the way they seamlessly move between genres and styles while maintaining their originality is noteworthy. Their detailed art and imaginative storytelling have captured the hearts of readers worldwide.

 

7. Junji Ito

When it comes to horror manga, Junji Ito's works are incomparable. Known for mangas like Uzumaki and Tomie, Ito’s ability to delve into primal fears and create disturbing and eerie atmospheres is unparalleled. 

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Ito's detailed and peculiar art style makes his stories even more chilling, leaving readers with images that haunt them long after they’ve closed the book. Ito’s ability to find horror in the mundane, turning everyday scenarios into nightmarish experiences is simply astounding.


8. Hiroya Oku

Hiroya Oku’s Gantz is a wild journey from start to finish. He skillfully blends science fiction, horror, and action. Oku’s work is known for its graphic content and mind-blowing plot twists. He often uses hyper-realistic, 3D models in his works to achieve a unique and detailed look.

The way Oku is always willing to push boundaries and explore controversial themes is what makes his work stand out in the manga world.

 

9. Naoko Takeuchi

Naoko Takeuchi’s Sailor Moon isn’t just a manga, it's a cultural phenomenon. The series has inspired generations of readers and viewers with its impressive themes of friendship, love, and empowerment. 

Takeuchi’s art form is vibrant and very expressive, perfectly capturing the magical and emotional journey of her characters. Sailor Moon’s massive popularity is strong proof of Takeuchi's ability to create a timeless and beloved story.

 

10. Takehiko Inoue

Takehiko Inoue is best known for Slam Dunk and Vagabond. Inoue’s art is breathtaking, which is quite evident in his character design and his excellent understanding of form, perspective and line thickness.

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His attention to detail and ability to convey deep emotions through his characters make his work truly special. Inoue’s passion for storytelling and art shines through in every panel, making him one of the greatest in the manga world.

 

11. Inio Asano

Last but certainly not least, we have Inio Asano, the creator of Goodnight Punpun and Solanin. Asano’s work often delves into the complexities of life, exploring themes such as mental health and human relationships.

His art is both realistic and surreal, perfectly capturing the essence of his characters. Asano’s ability to blend amazing storytelling with stunning visuals makes his work a must-read for anyone who is seeking a deeper and more introspective manga experience.

These 11 artists have not only made history in the manga world but have also touched the hearts of countless readers worldwide. Their unique art styles and storytelling have inspired countless new generations of artists. Whether you are new to manga or a long-time reader, the works of these incredible artists are sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab one of their mangas, find a comfy nook, and immerse yourself in the worlds they’ve created, you certainly won’t be disappointed!

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About The Author

A graduate with a Bachelor's in Political Science, Sanjukta possesses a keen interest in pop-culture and fashion. She

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