Naoto aka Senpai is a timid guy, constantly teased by Nagatoro. He is also in the art club, where he draws and paints. Naoto’s secret art project is a manga series where the brave hero is obviously a stand-in for himself, a knight who saves damsels in distress. Nagatoro makes fun of his naivety, so Naoto has to buckle up and reconsider his art project. Senpai belongs to this list because he continues improving his art despite (or perhaps, because of?) Nagatoro’s constant teasing.

Himeno is a talented young pottery maker who tries out new techniques at her school’s pottery club. Her late mother was a renowned potter herself, and Himeno looks up to her work. When relocating to Tajimi, famous for its pottery tradition, Himeno is exposed to all sorts of techniques and beautiful artworks. Himeno is a sweet yet ambitious girl who wants to create clay items that bring smiles and comfort to their recipients, evident in the gifts she creates for her father.

Name it, and Sousaku can make it. Sousaku is the young prodigy and heir to Yubiwa Foundation, which manages Yubiwa Academy. Not only he is already active in the Foundation—already an insane feat—but he is also a gifted artist who can craft amazing artworks, with an unlimited range of media. Sousaku is a guy of a few words, but he makes up for it with his handicrafts, from paintings and sculptures, even to giving relaxing massages to Mayumi.

Setsu is a driven shamisen player, grandson of the famed Matsugoru Sawamura. After his grandfather’s death, Setsu moves to Tokyo, to try and discover his own playing style. He ends up enrolling at Umezono Academy, where he inspires other students to take up traditional Japanese music like him, thanks to Shuri’s encouragement, leader of the shamisen appreciation club. Setsu is high on our list because of his drive, talent, and commitment to traditional music.

Last but not least we have Defrot, the mysterious actor vampire, who, for most of the series, held his cards tightly to his chest. Defrot is OP but doesn’t look it because he is doomed to remain forever in his young body. The way he can release his emotions and achieve temporary peace is by acting on the stage. This is how Defrot can become other people and “die”. The stage gives this undead creature stability and helps him stay sane through the endless years he has spent alone. Defrot is a true artist at heart, delivering masterful performances, and this is why he deserves the first spot on our list.