Welcome to an enchanting journey through the captivating world of manga artist Kouno Fumiyo! Get ready to immerse yourself in her incredible talent with a special exhibition commemorating her 30th anniversary as a manga artist.
Opening Visuals: A Glimpse into Kouno Fumiyo’s Artistry
To begin our journey, here’s a collection of some of the exquisite pieces that define Kouno Fumiyo’s artistic legacy. Each image offers a unique window into her distinctive style and storytelling prowess, from iconic works to early illustrations.
From “Kono Sekai no Katasumi ni,” 2007 (© Kouno Fumiyo / Coamix)
Cover illustration for “Yunagi no Machi Sakura no Kuni,” 2004 (© Kouno Fumiyo / Coamix)
“Hoshizukiyo” (Cover illustration for “Ootagawa,” Hiroshima Ootagawa Lions Club, 1996) (© Kouno Fumiyo)
WEEKLY Manga Action Rookie Award Recruitment Illustration, 1992 (© Kouno Fumiyo)
“Hyakuichi,” 2018 (© Kouno Fumiyo / Nihon Bungeisha)
“Arigataya no Yoichibee” (submitted work, 1995) (© Kouno Fumiyo)
“Pippira Chou (Note)” Frontispiece, 2004 (© Kouno Fumiyo / Coamix)
“Kaku Hito” (The Person Who Draws) (© Kouno Fumiyo)
Kouno Fumiyo’s Complete Retrospective: “Kono Sekai no Katasumi ni” Manga Artist’s 30th Anniversary Exhibition Now Open! (Limited Run, No Tour Plans)
An extraordinary art exhibition, aptly titled “Manga Artist Life 30th Anniversary Kouno Fumiyo Exhibition: Tori ga Tobi, Usagi mo Hanete, Hana Yurete, Hashitte Kokete, Nagai Michinori”, is currently underway at the Sakura Shiritsu Bijutsukan. Running until October 2, 2025, this exhibition offers an unparalleled look into the illustrious career of Kouno Fumiyo, a manga artist widely celebrated for her iconic work, Kono Sekai no Katasumi ni.
This commemorative exhibition celebrates Kouno Fumiyo’s three decades in the manga industry. It’s an expansive showcase, featuring over 500 pieces, including original manga illustrations, striking book illustrations, charming picture book originals, meticulously crafted storyboards, insightful memos, and even never-before-seen footage detailing her creative process. Visitors will embark on a journey through her entire artistic trajectory, from her early debut days right up to her most recent creations.
While there have been numerous exhibitions focusing on her monumental successes like Yunagi no Machi Sakura no Kuni and Kono Sekai no Katasumi ni, this particular event stands out. It marks the very first large-scale retrospective that truly encompasses her complete body of work, offering a comprehensive look at her profound influence and evolving artistry over the years. It’s a truly significant occasion for fans and art enthusiasts alike.
An Exclusive Opportunity: Don’t Miss This Limited Run!
This incredible exhibition is a limited-time engagement, running only until October 2. Currently, there are no plans for it to tour other venues within the Kanto region, making this a truly exclusive chance to witness the breadth of Kouno Fumiyo’s talent. If you’ve been touched by her stories or are simply curious about the craft of a master manga artist, we wholeheartedly encourage you to make your way to the Sakura Shiritsu Bijutsukan and experience this unique event for yourself before it closes its doors!
Engaging Events and Activities Await!
In conjunction with the main exhibition, a packed schedule of exciting related events is also planned, promising even more opportunities to delve into Kouno Fumiyo’s world. Visitors can look forward to a special mini-talk session featuring Kouno Fumiyo herself, offering rare insights into her creative mind.
There will also be a public reading event where attendees can enjoy Kouno-san’s manga being brought to life. A dedicated book fair will introduce not only Kouno-san’s own published works but also books that have influenced her, offering a deeper understanding of her inspirations. And for those who wish to express their admiration, a special fan letter corner will be set up within the exhibition venue, allowing visitors to send their heartfelt messages directly to the artist. It’s a truly comprehensive celebration!
Exhibition and Event Details: Plan Your Visit!
Exhibition Information:
- Venue: Sakura Shiritsu Bijutsukan (210 Shinmachi, Sakura-shi, Chiba-ken)
- Period & Opening Hours: Currently running until October 2 (Thursday), from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
- Closed: Mondays (However, September 15 (Monday) will be open, and September 16 (Tuesday) will be closed)
- Admission Fees:
- General: 1,000 yen
- University Students: 800 yen (Please present your student ID when purchasing student tickets)
- High School Students and Younger: Free
- Groups of 20 or more receive a 20% discount.
- Free admission for the holder of a disability certificate and one accompanying companion.
Related Event Information:
- “Toshokan no Naka no Kouno-san” (Kouno-san in the Library)
- Featuring: Kouno Fumiyo (manga artist), Fukunaga Shin (Exhibition Supervisor / novelist)
- Date & Time: September 20 (Saturday) from 11:00 AM (approximately 40 minutes)
- Location: Yumesaku Hiroba on the 1st floor of Yumesakura-kan (40-1 Shinmachi, Sakura-shi, Chiba-ken)
- Capacity: 50 people (No advance registration required)
- Cooperation: Seigensha Promotion
- “Kouno-san to Issho ni Manga wo Roudoku shite miyou!” (Let’s Read Manga Together with Kouno-san!)
- Featuring: Kouno Fumiyo (manga artist), Fukunaga Shin (Exhibition Supervisor / novelist)
- Date & Time: September 20 (Saturday) from 2:00 PM until the reading concludes (yes, really!)
- Location: Museum 4th Floor Hall
- Capacity: 99 people
- No advance registration required, participation is free (however, an exhibition ticket is required), and you are free to enter and exit at any time.
- Kouno Fumiyo-san Book Fair
- “Kouno-san ni Otegami ga Kakeru yo!” (You Can Write a Letter to Kouno-san!)
- Limited-Time Display Works! Some special works will be exhibited only until September 20 (Saturday)!
© Kouno Fumiyo
《Yoneda Kaori》
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