A long-lost piece of artwork by Neon Genesis Evangelion creator Hideaki Anno has been discovered—an original layout of the heavy cruiser Maya he drew while working as a key animator on the 1988 Studio Ghibli film Grave of the Fireflies. The piece will be exhibited for the first time at the upcoming “Isao Takahata Exhibition: The Man Who Made Japanese Animation,” opening June 27 at Azabudai Hills Gallery in Tokyo.

The exhibition commemorates both the 90th anniversary of director Isao Takahata’s birth and the 80th anniversary of the end of the Pacific War. Featured in the showcase area are production materials from Grave of the Fireflies, Pom Poko, and Heidi, Girl of the Alps, including cels and background art.

Among these works is Anno’s rediscovered layout of the Maya, which will be presented alongside a harmony cel based on his drawing. Unlike standard cels that use flat coloring, harmony cels use a painterly technique for greater realism, resembling fine art.

As a special weekday-only gift, attendees will receive an exclusive paper case with original designs created for the exhibition. There are five different designs, each featuring artwork from a different Takahata work depending on the day of the week. The cases can be used as mint tins or matchboxes, and when opened, they reveal an illustration of Isao Takahata drawn by Hisashi Ishi.

Source : ORICON NEWS