Mukuo Takamura (01.01.1938 - 09.06.1992) was a legendary art director from Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan who shaped anime's visual identity during its golden age.

A graduate of Musashino Art University with a degree in Western Painting, Takamura started as a background artist at Tokyo Movie Studio after graduating in 1963. He quickly established himself, founding Mukuo Group in 1966 and Mukuo Studio in 1968 (incorporated in 1971).

He's best known for his art direction on Takahata Isao's feature film Cello Hiki no Gauche and the beloved Haha o Tazunete Sanzenri, part of the WMT series. For the latter, he actually traveled to Italy and Argentina alongside Takahata and Miyazaki to nail the authentic look. Beyond these works, he became iconic for his contributions to sci-fi classics like Uchuu Senkan Yamato, Uchuu Kaizoku Captain Harlock, and Ginga Tetsudou 999.

Recognition came early and often—Takamura won the grand-prix in the art category at the first-ever anime popularity contest organized by publisher Tokuma-Shoten. He went on to win that category five consecutive times before it was discontinued, making him the only artist to ever sweep it.

Takamura passed away from cancer on June 9, 1992 at age 54. He was working on Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon at the time; Kubota Tadao succeeded him as both art designer and studio director, though Takamura remained credited as art designer for all subsequent Sailor Moon productions.

In 2004, a posthumous collection of his work was published—Takamura Mukuo: The Art of Animation—showcasing his background art, concept boards, and designs from Sailor Moon, Ginga Tetsudou 999, Haha o Tazunete Sanzenri, and other masterpieces.