This is an exhibition you won’t want to miss, particularly if you have even the slightest artistic inclination. 3331 Arts Chiyoda is hosting a collection of renowned manga artist Katsuhiro Otomo’s original drawings.

The event is titled Katsuhiro Otomo Gengaten, and since some of the powerful images were posted on the gallery’s website, Twitter account and Facebook page, fans have been unable to contain their excitement and anticipation. “I HAVE to see this!” is a common refrain.

“For the first time, the breadth of manga artist Katsuhiro Otomo’s work will be revealed,” says the gallery website. “From his debut to his current project, drawings from all of Mr. Otomo’s work are gathered together for this world premier event.

“Following the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11th of last year, Mr. Otomo was involved in many charity projects to support affected regions. This lead him to wonder what he could do to contribute as an artist, and this show is the result. As Mr. Otomo hails from Miyagi Prefecture, one of the most severely damaged regions, it is natural that he would want to contribute to reconstruction efforts. Thus, 30% of the funds raised from this exhibition will be donated to that cause.”

The artwork comes from his most famous manga, like Akiro, Domu, Kibun wa mou Sensou, and Sayonara Nippon, masterpieces his fans couldn’t tear their eyes away from, all the way up to colored pieces from his art books Kaba and Kaba2. The big question seems to be exactly how many pieces will be displayed.

3331 Arts Chiyoda is located near Akihabara Station and the exhibit will be held from April 9th to May 30th. More detailed information is available on their website.

Even in their published form, the detail and overwhelming power of Otomo’s drawings took our breath away. To see the world that Otomo poured his heart and soul into in its original form will surely be even more powerful. This is definitely not one to miss!

From the first image on, mind-blowing!


[ Read in Japanese ]