Starting April 19, 2025, a unique exhibition titled "Drawing Person, Yoshikazu Yasuhiko" will showcase the illustrious life and career of Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, the acclaimed character designer behind the iconic "Mobile Suit Gundam." Taking place at the Aomori Prefectural Art Museum, this exhibition is particularly notable as it marks the first solo show of Yasuhiko at the venue.
The exhibition will feature over 10,000 illustrations and artifacts, depicting Yasuhiko's artistic evolution and contributions to the anime industry. Yasuhiko, born in 1947 in Hokkaido, began his educational pursuits at Hirosaki University. His career took root during the 1960s, where his passion and involvement in student movements would later influence his artistic work.
The exhibition promises not only to display Yasuhiko's extensive body of work but also to include materials from his student days, including the magazine he created during his activism, made possible through the cooperation of Hirosaki University.
Alongside the exhibition, audiences can look forward to an insightful talk show featuring Hideaki Anno, the esteemed director of the "Evangelion" series and the scriptwriter for "Mobile Suit Gundam." This event is expected to provide attendees with unique insights from two influential figures who have significantly shaped Japan's animation industry.
Yasuhiro Sugimoto, the museum curator, spoke at the press conference held on February 26, 2025, expressing his enthusiasm for the exhibition. He stated, "This is the first attempt to focus on the themes common to his diverse works from his youth. I hope visitors feel the rich historical background as they experience the breadth of his work." Sugimoto's anticipation for the event adds to the appeal of the exhibition, promising attendees both to learn and to appreciate Yasuhiko's artistic legacy.
Visitors can explore this retrospective until June 29, 2025, with the museum opening its doors daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. General admission is set at 1700 yen, making it accessible for both residents and tourists.
Overall, the "Drawing Person, Yoshikazu Yasuhiko" exhibition serves as not only a tribute to Yasuhiko's impactful career but also as an opportunity for fans and new audiences alike to immerse themselves within the multifaceted world of anime artistry. With the unique educational experiences it offers, from the plethora of display materials to engaging discussions with industry veterans, the exhibition is set to be one of the highlights of Aomori's cultural offerings this year.