Book Review: Starry Tales by KAGAYA

[Zaphiel]

Starry Tales
by KAGAYA Digital Fine Art
Publisher: 河出書房新社 (2003/6/7)
ISBN-10: 4309266525
ISBN-13: 978-4309266527
Release Date: 2003/6/7
Product Dimensions: 11.7 x 8.7 x 0.6 inches
Pages: 64
Link: Amazon JP | YesAsia USA

   

Kagaya is, from his site: "A Japanese digital fine artist. Born in 1968, he has created artworks relating to the universe including CG animation pictures, digital prints, posters, illustrations for astronomical books and magazines.
The main themes of his work are the universe, the blue planet, and humankind as a part of the universe --- their dreams and yearnings. His artistry and scientific accuracy enable him to embody the beauty that integrates all the elements of the universe.
His constellation pictures are made into jigsaw puzzles, which are gaining popularity around the world."

I saw the cover on Amazon Japan and I was intregued. The image on the cover is so striking, and I love zodiac motifs so I took the plunge and bought it. I was extremely happy with my gamble.

   

Each image of the western zodiac has a page dedicated to the full artwork, and another for a closeup.

   

Opposite the full-sized artwork is the constellation, and a description in Japanese.
I was really happy to have the closeup pages, because you can really see how detailed the art is.

   

I was also amazed at the beauty he gave to each member of the western zodiac. My sign is Taurus, and I find that I usually don't have beautiful images of the bull, but I was blown away at Kagaya's version.

   
   

After the 12 zodiac images, there are also 5 bonus constellations (but without the associated star constellations, which is slightly dissapointing).

If you are into digital art, I highly recommend this book!

   
   

[parka]

Very beautiful art.

Reminds me of Final Fantasy 13 promo art in some ways.