The somewhat enigmatic manga creator Masamune Shirow finally has an exhibition in Tokyo commemorating his work, and it is utterly fascinating.
For many, Shirow is one of the definitive modern manga creators and is also hugely influential. From his work on Appleseed to Ghost in the Shell, his work has helped to define contemporary science fiction and cyberpunk for decades.
Naturally, his manga has also been adapted into anime over the years, in some cases multiple times. The latter is likely where many know his name from, especially when it comes to Ghost in the Shell.
However, this exhibition covers a lot more than that. Not only does it cover Shirow’s influences, but also the actual tools he uses to make manga.
You also get walkthroughs of his actual manga work for each series, from Dominion to Black Magic, Orion, and many more.
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Obviously, works like Appleseed and Ghost in the Shell have a sizable presence, but the exhibition itself is more considered than that.
Shirow even has panels throughout the exhibition giving his thoughts on various subjects, such as the origins of the Fuchikomas from Ghost in the Shell, and that they were inspired by the quadrupedal tank from the Akira manga by Katsuhiro Otomo.
You also have a timeline of Shirow’s thoughts on technological progress, which is an interesting idea, seeing how much of his manga tried to predict the future.
In any case, for any fan of Shirow and his long-running career in manga, this exhibition is a must-see. Held at the Setagaya Literary Museum, tickets cost 1,500 yen (or around $10 at the current exchange rate).
The exhibition also has an artbook, featuring many of the pieces on display, and that too comes highly recommended and costs 4,180 yen (or around $29 at the current exchange rate). The exhibition will run until August 17.
Masamune Shirow Exhibition Gallery
Location: Setagaya Literary Museum
Duration: April 12th – August 17th
Entrance: 1,500 yen
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