Riyadh, January 21, 2025: The “Manga Hokusai Manga” exhibition opened on January 15th, 2025 and will run until May 25th at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA) at Jax district in Diriyah, the first contemporary art museum in the Kingdom, marking a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape. The exhibition is organized in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan and the Japan Foundation to explore the profound cultural influence of Katsushika Hokusai’s works on contemporary manga art with Japan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mr. Yasunari Morino in attendance.
This international exhibition, which has been travelling since 2016, is presented for the first time in the Arab Region. Driven by its commitment to foster cross-cultural exchange and dialogue, SAMoCA hosts the exhibition at a symbolic time, as the year 2025 marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan.
The exhibition showcases the works of the renowned Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai, one of the most prominent figures in traditional Japanese art. It highlights Hokusai’s artistic legacy through his collection titled Hokusai Manga, first published in 1814. Featuring over 4,000 sketches across 15 volumes, the collection captures diverse scenes from daily life, landscapes and whimsical creatures, marking the beginning of a new era in Japanese illustration art.
Hokusai’s works gained widespread fame during the Edo period (1603–1868), with his volumes continuing to be published until 1834. Even after his passing in 1849, his works remain a testament to his artistic brilliance, inspiring generations of artists in Japan and around the world while playing a pivotal role in shaping modern manga art. The exhibition highlights the history and evolution of manga, providing a comprehensive perspective on how Hokusai’s classical illustrations have influenced modern visual arts. It invites visitors to journey through the evolution of this art form, from its classical origins to its innovative contemporary expressions.
The exhibition runs until February 8, and tickets are available through WeBook.
Link: https://webook.com/en/events/manga-hokusai-manga-moc