The manga magazine "Hana to Yume" (Hakusensha) will hold an original art exhibition, "50th Anniversary Hana to Yume Exhibition," at Tokyo City View from May 24 to June 30. A preview event was held today, May 23.

This exhibition, themed around a "party" to celebrate its 50th anniversary, invites visitors of all generations to enjoy the world of shoujo manga that "Hana to Yume" has shaped, along with the excitement and emotion it has brought to readers. The exhibition features valuable original artworks and furoku (magazine freebies), interactive corners, photo spots, and more, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the unique world of "Hana to Yume."

The exhibition will showcase around 200 original artworks by 74 artists, including classics that have marked "Hana to Yume's" history, such as "Glass Mask," "Patalliro!," "Fruits Basket," "Yona of the Dawn," "Hana-Kimi," and "Baby and Me."

A highlight of the exhibition is the display of the iconic first issue cover illustrations for "Glass Mask" and "Sukeban Deka," both of which began their serialization simultaneously in the first issue of 1976. Additionally, the cover illustration from the final chapter of "Fruits Basket" will be on display.

During the preview event, Hakusensha President Hirofumi Sugawara, "Hana to Yume" Editorial Director Hideyuki Takada, and Editor-in-Chief Takahiro Hasegawa took the stage. President Sugawara explained the challenging start of the magazine, stating, "Despite the effects of the oil shock and reduced page numbers in weekly magazines, 'Hana to Yume' began its journey."

Director Takada highlighted a significant turning point for the magazine, saying, "'Glass Mask' and 'Sukeban Deka' were groundbreaking works for shoujo manga, allowing 'Hana to Yume' to expand into a unique realm. Following these, 'Patalliro!' also began, marking a key moment for the magazine's recognition."

Editor-in-Chief Hasegawa reflected on the magazine's history, noting, "'Glass Mask,' 'Sukeban Deka,' and other works that broke out of the traditional mold led to an increase in unique and distinctive works. With titles like 'Fruits Basket' and 'Yona of the Dawn,' media mix developments grew significantly, making these works known even to those who hadn't read the manga through TV anime and other adaptations."

First published in May 1974, "Hana to Yume" is released on the 5th and 20th of each month. As a leading and unique manga magazine, it has produced numerous acclaimed works, including "Glass Mask," "Patalliro!," "The Heart of Thomas," "Please Save My Earth," "Baby & Me," "Fruits Basket," "Hana-Kimi," and "Yona of the Dawn."

Source : ORICON NEWS