Maru Mori
Maru Mori |
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| Kanji | 森 まる |
| Rōmaji | Mori Maru |
| Age: | 18 |
| Birthday: | December 31 |
| Height: | 147cm (4’9″) |
| Voice Actor | |
| Japanese | Mayu Aoyaki |
| English | Triya Leong |
Maru Mori (Japanese: 森 まる, Mori Maru), is a supporting character in the manga and anime series Blue Period. She is a former member of the high school art club and the senior (senpai) of protagonist Yatora Yaguchi. Mori is the first person whose artwork deeply moves Yatora, sparking his initial interest in art and setting him on the path to becoming an artist.
After graduating from high school, Mori enrolled in Musashino Art University, where she continues to explore religious art, a genre that aligns with her personal interests and introspective artistic voice.
Background
Appearance in anime
Mori was a third-year high school student when Yatora was in his second year. As a respected member of the art club, she was known for her unique visual style, deep emotional expression, and quiet demeanor.
Her painting, prominently featured during the school’s cultural festival, becomes the catalyst for Yatora’s artistic awakening, marking the moment he realizes that art can convey emotions and ideas beyond what words can express. Mori’s passion and authenticity leave a lasting impression on him, even after she graduates.
Mori later enrolls at Musashino Art University, a prestigious private art institution in Japan, where she continues to study and create religious-themed artwork, reflecting her introspective and spiritual nature.
Appearance
Mori has a gentle and modest appearance, with short dark hair and soft facial features. She often wears her school uniform neatly, and even when painting, her attire reflects her quiet, focused personality.
Her demeanor is calm, reserved, and polite, and she carries herself with a certain grace and maturity that distinguishes her from other students. Her art often stands in contrast to her soft-spoken nature—rich in symbolism and emotional depth.
Personality
Maru Mori is reserved, kind-hearted, and deeply introspective. She often struggles with self-confidence, especially when it comes to explaining or defending her art, but she pours her emotions and thoughts into her paintings with sincerity.
Mori’s humble nature makes her well-liked among her peers, though she tends to keep to herself. She approaches art as a personal and spiritual journey, often exploring themes of faith, devotion, and inner conflict.
She serves as a quiet but profound influence on Yatora, helping him recognize that art is not just about technique, but about personal truth and emotional resonance.
Role in the Story
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Catalyst for Yatora’s Awakening
Mori’s artwork is the first painting that truly moves Yatora, sparking his emotional reaction and inspiring him to consider art as a form of expression. This pivotal moment leads him to join the school’s art club, setting the entire story of Blue Period into motion. Though she graduates soon after, Mori’s presence lingers through Yatora’s memories and reflections, often returning in moments when he questions his own artistic voice or emotional honesty. -
Post-Graduation
After graduation, Mori is said to be attending Musashino Art University, where she pursues religious art a niche and deeply personal field. While she does not appear frequently after her departure, her influence on Yatora remains significant.
Relationships
Yatora Yaguchi
Though their direct interactions are limited, Mori plays an essential role in Yatora’s development. She is the first artist he admires, and her painting becomes the emotional trigger that pushes him to discover his own voice. Yatora holds her in high regard, often recalling her passion and sincerity as a benchmark for his own growth.
Art Club Members
Mori is well-respected by other art club members, including Saeki-sensei, who recognizes her talent and dedication. Her gentle and unassuming nature earns her the admiration of her peers, even though she often keeps her thoughts to herself.