Crazy for Nakamura Asumiko
I didn't think it would happen, but it did. I am so impressed, I can hardly contain myself. In the manga world, there have been two consistent types of manga that I will read: 1) extremely good storylines regardless of art style and 2) very beautiful art style, but not much originality with plot. Though a lot of times, these really good plot mangas have exceptionally beautiful artwork too. For instance... Nakamura Asumiko has breathtaking artwork. Yes, it may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it is very beautiful. I am reading "Copernicus no Kokyuu" right now and it is dark, grotesque, and yet also beautiful. In a way, it reminds me of Edogawa Rampo's writing style, and with how grotesque the story is, I can't help, but make the comparison. I really love Edogawa Rampo, though it is really an acquired taste and so is "Copernicus."
The story of "Copernicus" is about a circus during what looks like Victorian times -- though I read somewhere it's actually Paris during the 1970's -- where the ringmaster sells his performers to patrons, and the main character is a sad-faced clown. The thematic material in the story is not for the weak of heart so do not read this if violence, sexual abuse, gore and such are not your cup of tea. Despite the angst, there is a small glimmer of romance and love amidst the darkness and it's very poignant. I have only read the first three chapters of volume one, but I am so buying this series next chance I get. I am just moved by how beautiful it is.
Another story that took me some time to adjust to, but I also found enjoyable is "Double Mints" which is dark, angsty, violent, and has abuse as well, which was hard for me to stomach at first, but the story is actually quite beautiful. Again, it is not for everyone since the themes used are very adult in nature and it really takes an acquired taste to like Nakamura Asumiko's style. I think her storytelling style and her artwork are just breathtaking and I am so amazed by how versatile of an artist she is. My number one favorite mangaka is still Yoshinaga Fumi with Shimizu Yuki following, but Nakamura Asumiko is a close second, though currently sitting in third, and I love Kotobuki Tarako too. I just really love her work. She is amazing and if you haven't read anything by her yet, man, you are seriously missing out.