Masao Koga (b. 1957)

In 1976 Masao Koga enrolled at Nihon Kogakuin College located in Kamata, Ota Ward, Tokyo, with the initial intention of pursuing a career in filmmaking. However, he closely observed the gradual decline within the film industry and, after a year, decided to change course and pursue the arts.

Upon completing his studies at Nihon Kogakuin College of Art in 1978, he embarked on a journey of diverse experiences. He took up various part-time roles, including cleaning airplanes at Haneda Airport, serving as a gas station attendant, delivering vegetables, and even cleaning building windows.

It was in 1981 he found his creative calling, delving into the realm of illustration within design studios and film production companies. As his skills flourished, he took the significant step of becoming a freelance illustrator in 1988...