Kuniyoshi Utagawa is a character based on the historical ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi, who was renowned for his dynamic woodblock prints of legendary samurai heroes, mythical creatures, and supernatural subjects. A prominent member of the Utagawa school, the historical Kuniyoshi left a significant mark on Japanese art, especially within the warrior print genre. His work integrated Western artistic techniques like perspective and shading, and he rose to fame with series such as "The 108 Heroes of the Suikoden," noted for its intricate character tattoos. These prints often conveyed themes of rebellion and heroism, which captured the public imagination during the Edo period.

In the anime, Kuniyoshi Utagawa is summoned as one of several historical Japanese artists to instruct the protagonist, Tenkorin Okakura, in art and perseverance. He appears as a guest character alongside other master artists from Japan's past, aiding Tenkorin's lessons on pursuing her dreams through artistic development. His character design and role draw inspiration from the historical artist's legacy, including his association with bold and imaginative printmaking.