I feel like I need to preface this by saying it's my first proper review of anything I've watched... so go me I guess.

I can't begin to identify what the most driving element of this anime to me was. Whether it was the breathtaking artistry and the artwork it presented, the stand-out diversity of the characters, or even the stellar concepts and almost poetic thoughts consistently presented throughout the duration, all of these elements were fascinating.

However, I think the one to take the cake would have to be my real-world connection to the main character Yatora Yaguchi and his creative struggle in becoming an artist. The writing team nailed how self-deprecating and stressful being an artist can be from our lack of confidence and doubts in our ability that plague our every waking moment, the obsession to nail every minute detail for it to be considered as something of "worth" and most of all the fear of presenting that art. I resonated highly with these notions that seemed to rattle Yatora in just the same way and it was almost comforting to see that struggle identified, almost like I wasn't the only one who experienced it. The whole arc of taking exams to get into a university was especially close to home, heaven knows I had to audition many times to finally get into one that I liked. In addition, I loved the hopeful and encouraging message "It's never too late to start or discover something you enjoy" which is such a deterring thought for most people that prevents them from seeing an unknown talent, myself included.

Aside from my own personal connection to the character and plot, the actual anime itself is constantly leaving me with anticipation and a want for more. More art. More drama. More whatever Yaguchi is stressing about. If anything I kinda wished we got a bit more backstory or insight into some of the characters, similar to how we witness Ryuji's home situation, understanding his family life and struggle to continue with art. Though I am grateful for the insights and heart to hearts of some of the characters, I would've liked to see more of this.

The actual art in the anime too was visually stunning. I found myself more often than not pausing the show so I could just sit and look over some of the artworks, like Yatora's "Bond" piece or Mori's prayer motif artworks that left my jaw gaping wide open. I also found myself learning a little more about the process in which art is made, the methods, its composition, the use of utensils to create different effects, colour, etc, etc, etc. If anything it's making me want to draw something, although I'm not the best at drawing.

There were so many things that we're right about this anime that I seriously hope to see more in a second season with so much still waiting to be uncovered and explored.

Hopefully, some people found this review enjoyable and I hope to see some similar reviews.