San Francisco’s de Young Museum is set to host a groundbreaking exhibition, “Art of Manga,” featuring the works of renowned manga artist Hirohiko Araki, alongside other influential figures in the genre. This marks the first major exploration of Japanese manga as an art form in the United States, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the visual and narrative power of this globally recognized medium. The exhibition is scheduled to run from September 27, 2025, to January 25, 2026.
A Celebration of Manga as Art
The “Art of Manga” exhibition will showcase over 700 original drawings from some of the most celebrated manga artists. This includes works by Hirohiko Araki, best known for his long-running series JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, as well as Eiichiro Oda (One Piece), Rumiko Takahashi (Urusei Yatsura, Inuyasha), and other notable artists. Many of the works have never been publicly displayed before, making this a rare and exciting event for both avid manga fans and newcomers alike.
Thomas P. Campbell, Director and CEO of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, noted that manga is one of the most significant visual mediums of our time, captivating millions with dynamic graphic narratives. He also highlighted San Francisco’s history as a gateway for Japanese cultural exchange, making the city the perfect place to honor this legacy through the “Art of Manga” exhibition.
Exploring Manga’s Evolution
The exhibition will trace the evolution of manga, from its roots in 18th and 19th-century Japanese woodblock prints to the influence of Western comics. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the diverse artistic styles, production processes, and the social impact of manga, including its role in exploring identity and cultural shifts.
The term “manga” itself translates to “pictures run riot” in Japanese, reflecting the genre’s free-flowing, imaginative nature. This dynamic storytelling style has captivated global audiences with its vivid artwork and compelling narratives.
Hirohiko Araki: A Style Like No Other
Hirohiko Araki, born on June 7, 1960, in Sendai, Japan, is a contemporary manga artist celebrated for his distinctive and influential style. His most famous work, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, has been running since 1986 and is lauded for its dynamic characters, intricate storylines, and unique artistic approach.
Araki’s art is characterized by his experimental drawing process, which incorporates a wide array of references, from classical paintings and sculptures to fashion magazines and famous musicians. He is known for his use of exaggerated human forms, dynamic poses, and bold color palettes, creating a visually striking and unforgettable style.
Inspirations Behind the Art
Araki’s artistic vision is influenced by a variety of sources:
- Classical Art: He draws inspiration from classical techniques in paintings and sculptures, particularly Greek and Roman art, for capturing the beauty and proportions of the human form.
- Fashion: Araki has a deep passion for the fashion industry, frequently referencing high-fashion poses and the works of legendary illustrators. Designers such as Christian Dior and Gianni Versace have been among his inspirations.
- Pop Culture: He incorporates elements of Western pop culture and music, often naming characters and “Stands” (spiritual manifestations of power) after famous rock bands and artists.
- Paul Gauguin: Araki admires the color manipulation of French painter Paul Gauguin and has adopted a similarly cavalier approach to color in his work, often using hues that disregard reality in favor of aesthetic appeal.
- Antonio Lopez: The fashion illustrations of Antonio Lopez have also been a source of inspiration for Araki’s style.
Araki’s willingness to bend the rules of perspective for dramatic effect and to use unconventional color schemes has made his work instantly recognizable and highly influential.
The Evolution of Araki’s Style
Araki’s art style has evolved over the decades. While his earlier works featured more rounded, unblemished faces, he later transitioned to using thicker, angular lines, giving his characters a sharper and more defined appearance. His use of bold, often inconsistent color palettes, further sets him apart from other manga artists. This has allowed the mangaka to create his own signature brand of art.
His style is not only about visual aesthetics but also about conveying dynamism and movement through exaggerated poses. His characters’ bodies often strike poses that are reminiscent of fashion magazine editorials and Greek sculptures, adding a unique flair to his work.
The Cultural Impact of Araki’s Work
Araki’s influence extends beyond the world of manga. His distinctive style has had a significant impact on both art and fashion:
- High Fashion Collaborations: Araki’s work has garnered attention from high-fashion brands, leading to collaborations with Gucci and other notable names. In 2013, Gucci collaborated with Araki, displaying his art in over 80 of its stores worldwide, and releasing a one-shot manga, Rohan Kishibe Goes to Gucci.
- Museum Recognition: His art has even been displayed in the Louvre museum, demonstrating its significance in the art world.
- Influence on Other Series: Araki’s unique style has become so iconic that numerous other series pay homage to him with references to JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.
Araki’s ability to fuse manga with elements of high fashion and classical art has created a unique space for his work in popular culture. His characters’ flamboyant designs, luxurious attire, and dynamic poses have captivated audiences and inspired many. The “JoJo pose” itself has become a cultural phenomenon, combining elements of shonen manga and high fashion in a way that is distinctly Araki.
Experiencing “Art of Manga”
The “Art of Manga” exhibition at the de Young Museum offers a comprehensive exploration of manga’s artistic and cultural impact. Visitors can expect to:
- View Original Artwork: See a vast collection of original manga drawings, including never-before-seen pieces.
- Learn About Manga’s History: Trace the evolution of manga from its historical origins to its contemporary global presence.
- Explore Diverse Styles: Discover the wide range of artistic styles and techniques used by manga artists.
- Understand the Production Process: Gain insight into how manga is created and produced.
- Examine Social Impact: Learn how manga functions as a tool for social commentary, particularly in exploring issues of identity and cultural change.
The exhibition also includes a section on Shueisha’s Manga-Art Heritage initiative (SMAH), demonstrating the global reach and significance of manga as a vital art form.
The “Art of Manga” exhibition at the de Young Museum promises to be a landmark event, celebrating the artistry and cultural importance of manga. The inclusion of Hirohiko Araki‘s work is a highlight that provides a unique opportunity to explore the distinctive style and broad influence of one of manga’s most visionary creators. This is an event that should be marked on the calendars of manga enthusiasts and art lovers alike, between September 27, 2025 and January 25, 2026.