The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco is set to unveil ‘Art of Manga,’ the largest manga exhibition ever held in North America, beginning on September 27 at the de Young Museum. This highly anticipated exhibition recognizes the profound influence and cultural significance of Japanese comics and graphic novels, which have impacted pop culture globally.
Featuring over 600 originals known as genga, the exhibition includes the works of ten renowned manga artists, such as Araki Hirohiko, Oda Eiichiro, and Takahashi Rumiko, among others. This unique collection aims to showcase the artistry and variety within manga, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Curator Nicole Coolidge Rousmaniere emphasizes that “there is a manga for everybody,” pointing to the diverse genres—ranging from fantasy and crime to humor and friendship—that encapsulate the rich storytelling found within this art form.
Rousmaniere, who previously curated a historically themed manga exhibit at the British Museum in 2019, believes that the exhibition will be a transformative experience for visitors. She highlights how the drawings can leave an indelible mark, making it difficult for viewers to “unsee” their impact once experienced.
A highlight of the exhibition will be an immersive installation that illustrates the creative process behind manga-making, providing insights for those unfamiliar with the medium. Rousmaniere stated, “Manga is already in textbooks in Japan.. At the end of the exhibition, you will be fluent in manga.”
With a personal connection to manga, Rousmaniere shares how her teenage years spent reading manga led her to become fluent in Japanese. One standout artist in the show is Takahashi Rumiko, known for her humor and crossing gender lines in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Rousmaniere praises Rumiko’s latest work, ‘MAO,’ which is being adapted into an anime. She describes it as captivating due to its deep exploration of spirituality in Japan.
In line with this, a dedicated section of the exhibit will showcase ‘MAO’ to guide visitors through its various stages of production, from initial sketches to the final bound publication. This educational approach seeks to deepen visitors’ appreciation for manga as both an art form and a narrative medium.
Mimi-Sama, a distinguished tattoo artist who has embraced manga themes, shares her experience with the medium. Known for her unique style titled ‘Mangala,’ which blends manga characters with geometric patterns influenced by traditional Japanese art, Mimi-Sama has traveled extensively to create her art.
Living a nomadic lifestyle, she has worked in over 20 countries, tattooing at conventions and festivals. Despite her journey, she maintains a connection to her San Francisco roots, frequently returning to Black Serum Tattoo, her former studio, to cater to loyal clientele.
Initially introduced to manga as a child by a friend, Mimi-Sama cites ‘Battle Angel Alita’ by Yukito Kishiro as a significant influence. She expresses admiration for the emotional depth that manga artists convey through their craft, stating, “I like to translate that from the paper to the skin.”
Brian Hibbs, the owner of Comix Experience, a comic book store in San Francisco, reflects on the evolving world of manga. Having opened his shop 36 years ago, he has seen an increasing interest in manga, which now comprises about 10 percent of his sales.
Hibbs believes that the appeal of manga lies in its vast mythologies and the never-ending stories it offers, many of which have been enjoyed for generations. With a selection of approximately 8,500 books in his store, he enjoys introducing new readers to the diverse genres available within manga.
Kevin Tagupa, a devoted manga enthusiast, engages with fellow fans through social media platforms like TikTok, where he discusses various manga and anime topics. With a passion that started at two years old, he has deepened his love for manga over the past 16 years.
Tagupa identifies himself as an O.G. resource for manga fans and relishes sharing his extensive knowledge about the medium. A collector at heart, he explains, “As a collector, I want that physical thing—it’s more impressive on the shelf.”
Residing in Walnut Creek, Tagupa has invested considerable time and funds into his hobby, spending over $15,000 in the last six years on manga and related activities. He eagerly anticipates visiting the ‘Art of Manga’ exhibit, particularly the section dedicated to Araki Hirohiko, the creator behind the iconic ‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.’
As the ‘Art of Manga’ exhibit nears its opening, anticipation is building for the opportunity to explore the intricacies and artistic innovations within manga. Scheduled to run from September 27, 2025, to January 25, 2026, at the de Young Museum, the exhibit promises to offer a comprehensive dive into the world of manga, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. More information can be found on their website.
image source from：missionlocal
