Celebrating 30 Years of Whisper of the Heart: Naohisa Inoue's Exhibition

This year marks a significant milestone for Studio Ghibli’s beloved anime "Whisper of the Heart," which celebrates its 30th anniversary. To honor this occasion, a comprehensive exhibition featuring the works of renowned painter Naohisa Inoue will open on June 20 in Tokyo. This exhibition will be held at ART SPACE SKY GALLERY, located in the heart of the Tokyo Big Sight area.

With around 100 pieces on display, including original drawings and newly created prints, this event represents the largest showcase of Inoue's work to date, allowing fans and art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the whimsical world that he has created. The exhibition will feature notable new prints such as "Market Evening" and "Hill with a Beautiful View," each offering a glimpse into Inoue's masterful ability to blend fantasy with reality.

The Beginning of a Magical Journey

Inoue's journey as an artist is as enchanting as his artwork. After graduating from art college, he worked in an advertising agency and as a high school teacher before fulfilling his dream of becoming a painter. He garnered significant attention when Hayao Miyazaki, the legendary director of Studio Ghibli, invited him to create background art for "Whisper of the Heart." This collaboration led to the emotionally resonant short film "Baron: The Cat Returns," showcasing Inoue's imaginative landscape that resonates deeply with audiences.

Inoue’s work, heavily influenced by the dreamy landscapes of his hometown Ibaraki, is known as "Ibarad." Drawing from this inspiration, the exhibition will transport visitors through Inoue's reinterpretation of the world around him, transforming familiar sights into fantastical realms. The ordinary train station morphs into vast hills, while wheat fields transform into shimmering plains. The skies are filled with numerous floating islands, reminiscent of the grand vistas from Castle in the Sky.

A Special Treat for Art Fans

Attendees will be granted a unique opportunity on June 28 to meet Inoue himself during a signing event. Anyone who purchases a print or art book will have their items signed in person. There are two scheduled sessions: the first from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM for print purchases, and the second from 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM for book buyers. This unique chance to meet the artist should not be missed, but details on participating conditions can be found by contacting the venue directly.

In addition to the artworks, there will be special giveaways during the exhibition. Buyers of any print will receive a tote bag featuring the design of their purchased artwork, while the first 100 visitors will receive an original sticker as a memento of their visit.

Online Availability

For art enthusiasts who cannot attend the exhibition in person, select newly created prints will be available for online purchase starting July 20. However, it should be noted that online buyers will not be eligible for the signing event.

The exhibition not only highlights the extraordinary talents of Naohisa Inoue but also serves to remind us of the whimsical beauty that can be found in our everyday lives. Visitors can explore the enchanting essence of Ibarad, as Inoue captures its beauty through the lens of his artistic imagination.

Exhibition Details

Event Name: Naohisa Inoue New Print Exhibition for his 70th Birthday Celebration
Dates: June 20 - 28, 2026
Hours: 12:00 - 18:00 (Open daily during the exhibition)
Venue: ART SPACE SKY GALLERY, Tokyo Big Sight Area, 3-7-26 Ariake, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0063
For inquiries, please call 03-6379-8885.
To get directions to the venue, visit this link.
For more information, please check the official website: ART SPACE SKY GALLERY.

This exhibition is not only a celebration of artistry but also an invitation to perceive the wonders of our surroundings through Inoue's inspired lenses.