- 14 Mar 2002
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Influential manga artist Kazuo Umezu, a pioneer in horror comics, passed away on 28 October at the age of 88. His iconic works, such as "The Drifting Classroom" and "Makoto-chan," have left a lasting impact on the genre. A private funeral was held for close family and friends. Born in Wakayama Prefecture and raised in Nara Prefecture, Umezu's career spanned over six decades, solidifying his place in the history of manga.
Photo credit:Asahi Shinbun
www3.nhk.or.jp
Makoto-chan
Photo credit:Asahi Shinbun
'Makoto-chan' manga artist Umezu Kazuo dead at 88 | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News
Celebrated manga artist Umezu Kazuo has died aged 88. He was known for a wide range of works, from horror and science fiction to comedy.
www3.nhk.or.jp
Kazuo Umezu (楳図 かずお), born Umezu Kazuo on 3 September 1936, was a multifaceted Japanese talent renowned as a manga artist, musician, and actor. His career, which began in the 1950s, significantly contributed to the evolution of horror manga, earning him the title "god of horror manga." Umezu's groundbreaking work, such as "Reptilia," challenged the conventions of the commercial manga industry in the 1960s by blending traditional Japanese folklore with grotesque imagery. This innovative approach sparked a surge in horror manga popularity and influenced subsequent generations of artists. His prolific career produced acclaimed series like "The Drifting Classroom," "Makoto-chan," and "My Name Is Shingo" until he retired from manga in the mid-1990s. Beyond his artistic endeavours, Umezu was a well-known public figure in Japan, recognized for his distinctive red-and-white-striped shirts and signature "Gwash" hand gesture.
Makoto-chan
