Celebrating 50 Years: Upcoming Exhibition for Leiji Matsumoto’s Galaxy Express 999

Celebrating 50 Years: Upcoming Exhibition for Leiji Matsumoto’s Galaxy Express 999

Overview

  • An exhibition commemorating the 50th anniversaries of Galaxy Express 999 and Space Pirate Captain Harlock is set to launch in Tokyo in June.
  • More than 300 original artworks by the iconic artist Leiji Matsumoto will be displayed for the first time.
  • Makiko Matsumoto offers a touching tribute regarding her father’s creative legacy in connection with the exhibition.

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About the Exhibition

An exciting celebration of Leiji Matsumoto’s monumental works is in the pipeline. The exhibition will kick off on June 20 and run through September 7 at Tokyo City View, situated on the 52nd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower. This special event will commemorate not just the iconic Galaxy Express 999, but also Space Pirate Captain Harlock, both of which were first serialized in 1977, marking their 50th anniversaries in 2027.

This exhibition is the initial step in a series of initiatives designed to honor these influential cultural icons, marking the first time that such a comprehensive showcase of Matsumoto’s works will be presented.

First-Time Exhibition of Leiji Matsumoto’s Works

Galaxy Express 999

The exhibition, titled “The Galaxy Express 999 50th Anniversary Project Leiji Matsumoto Exhibition – Journey of Creation“, is anticipated to attract numerous enthusiasts. Featuring over 300 original illustrations, it will include exclusive memorabilia as well as Matsumoto’s earlier works. Makiko Matsumoto, the artist’s daughter and the president of his production company, Leijisha, expressed her sentiments regarding the unveiling of this exhibition:

“It has been two years since my father, Leiji Matsumoto, embarked on his journey into the cosmos. Thanks to the dedication and hard work of various individuals, we are honored to host this exhibition showcasing his original artwork. Although he departed without the pen he cherished, each drawing left behind speaks volumes about his life and artistic process. Growing up, I would observe him deeply immersed in his work, often yearning for his attention. Now, through these artworks, I can reconnect with the father I knew and cherish the moments he created. He often said, ‘We will meet again in the distant place where the wheels of time connect, ’ a sentiment that resonates now more than ever. We hope this exhibition allows you all to find your own ‘place where the wheels of time connect.’”

Leiji Matsumoto (January 25, 1938 – February 13, 2023), was a renowned mangaka recognized for his contributions to the space opera genre. His iconic works, particularly Galaxy Express 999 (1977) and Space Battleship Yamato (1974), have achieved legendary status. Beyond the anime community, Matsumoto’s influence extends into popular culture, notably through the Daft Punk music video for “One More Time, ”which features segments from Interstella 5555: The 5tory of the 5ecret 5tar 5ystem, a captivating 2003 anime musical film he supervised, thus bridging the gap between music and animation.

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Source & Image: GameRant

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