Riyadh, January 10, 2025 - The Museums Commission, in partnership with the Embassy of Japan and the Japan Foundation, is excited to announce the opening of the "Manga Hokusai Manga" exhibition at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA) in JAX Diriyah. This highly anticipated exhibition, scheduled to run from January 15 to February 8, 2025, celebrates the legacy of the legendary Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai and his significant influence on the evolution of manga as a visual art form.
The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of manga and explore how Hokusai’s classical works have shaped the development of modern visual storytelling. Known for his mastery in ukiyo-e, a traditional form of Japanese woodblock printing, Hokusai's art bridged the gap between historical Japanese aesthetics and the contemporary cultural phenomena of today. The exhibition will showcase his most iconic pieces, providing a deeper understanding of how his pioneering techniques and bold compositions laid the foundation for the modern manga movement. Visitors will gain insight into the connection between traditional Japanese art and the dynamic, globally recognized world of manga, now celebrated as one of the most influential contemporary art forms.
At SAMoCA, the Kingdom’s first museum dedicated to contemporary art, this exhibition serves as a testament to the museum’s mission to promote cultural dialogue and exchange. SAMoCA has long been committed to fostering a greater appreciation for both local and international art practices, empowering Saudi artists while simultaneously enhancing the Kingdom's role on the global cultural stage. By hosting the Manga Hokusai Manga exhibition, SAMoCA is further solidifying its position as a hub for international collaboration and innovation in the world of contemporary art.
This exhibition also offers a remarkable opportunity for visitors in Saudi Arabia to experience a transformative cultural journey through the lens of Japanese artistry, reflecting the deep cultural ties between Japan and Saudi Arabia. It invites art enthusiasts, collectors, and the general public to immerse themselves in the profound and ever-evolving world of manga, gaining new perspectives on its intersection with tradition, history, and modern visual culture.