Here is a sampling of wonderfully crafted background illustrations as seen in the 1993 Studio Ghibli production Umi ga Kikoeru (aka Ocean Waves in the West). I loved this movie when I first discovered it many years ago, and time has taken away none of its luster. I wish Western animation could break free of its "babysitter" mindset and create works such as this.
The background illustrations are drawn with a fine sense of detail, and a great sense of realism that is only slightly enhanced by the color palette. It looks so much like a collection of romanticized photographs, and it fits the story's themes of lost loves and nostalgic reunions. This also matches very closely the visual style of Japanese manga comics, which has always exerted a great influence on animators.
These screenshots come from our friends at Ghibli Collector, a Tumblr art site that features all sorts of impressive photos and illustrations from the Ghibli movies. I highly recommend visiting and sharing with family and friends.
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