
Spanning from Hokusai to Pokémon, Studio Ghibli, and more, the exhibit offers an atmospheric journey exploring Japan’s art and design evolution. With over 150 objects ranging from ancient to contemporary, visitors will experience visual art, animation, film, fashion, and hands-on activities to ignite creativity. Showcased items include works from V&A’s collections, global loans, new acquisitions, and seldom-seen masterpieces.
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The exhibit unfolds in four distinct sections: Sky, Sea, Forest, and City. Each segment offers insight into Japan’s cherished stories and their artistic manifestations. Highlights include Kunisada’s woodblock prints, an installation involving the Tanabata festival, Hokusai’s Great Wave, Studio Ghibli’s cinematic masterpieces, and exploring “kawaii” culture, anime, manga, and modern technology.
Adventure awaits! 🏔️
Book your tickets now for Japan: Myths to Manga – our first exhibition at Young V&A ✨
Opening 14 October, members go free: https://t.co/3ywATcWETA
Supported by Toshiba
📸 – The Tale of Princess Kaguya © 2013 Studio Ghibli pic.twitter.com/0KA9fMFRsU
— Young V&A (@young_vam) August 17, 2023
Katy Canales, the esteemed Curator, shares her enthusiasm, “Japan’s diverse landscape and profound myths have inspired brilliant works for centuries. Our goal is to showcase this legacy while also creating engaging experiences for our younger visitors.”
As Dr Helen Charman, Director of Learning and Young V&A, rightly states, “With ‘Japan: Myths to Manga’, we’re taking a significant step towards our commitment to educate and inspire the younger generation, ensuring that they appreciate the rich tapestry of art and culture.”
Supported by Toshiba and Cockayne Grants for the Arts, Japan: Myths to Manga opens at the Young V&A on 14 October.