Manga exhibition in Jeddah explores evolution of Japanese artform

Hosted at Bait Amir Bahar in Al-Balad, one of Jeddah’s historic homes, the Manga Hokusai Manga exhibition showcases the cultural depth of Japanese storytelling. (AN photos/Supplied)
Hosted at Bait Amir Bahar in Al-Balad, one of Jeddah’s historic homes, the Manga Hokusai Manga exhibition showcases the cultural depth of Japanese storytelling. (AN photos/Supplied)
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Updated 18 February 2025
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Manga exhibition in Jeddah explores evolution of Japanese artform

Manga exhibition in Jeddah explores evolution of Japanese artform
  • Event strengthens bonds of friendship, cooperation between Kingdom and Japan, says consul-general

JEDDAH: As Saudi Arabia and Japan celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, the Consulate-General of Japan in Jeddah is marking the milestone with Manga Hokusai Manga, a three-week art exhibition running until March 8.

Organized in collaboration with the Jeddah Historical Development Project and the Japan Foundation, the exhibition explores the evolution of Japanese manga from the 19th-century works of ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai to the modern format that has gained widespread popularity in the Kingdom.




‘Futatasumakura,’ 1981 by Hinao Sugiura. (AN photos/Supplied)

Hosted at Bait Amir Bahar in Al-Balad, one of Jeddah’s historic homes, the exhibition highlights both the similarities and contrasts between the artistic styles while showcasing the cultural depth of Japanese storytelling.

Rather than simply focusing on how Hokusai’s work influenced manga, the exhibition invites visitors to compare both styles and understand what makes them unique. It examines themes such as visual storytelling, artistic techniques and cultural participation across different eras.

HIGHLIGHT

The exhibition in Jeddah explores the evolution of Japanese manga from the 19th-century works of ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai to the modern format that has gained widespread popularity in the Kingdom.

Hokusai’s manga drawings, while sometimes resembling cartoons, encompass a wide variety of subjects, from nature to human expressions and everyday life. Unlike modern comics, his work was not centered on humor but balanced artistic instruction with entertainment — much like how manga today combines storytelling with visual artistry.




‘Portrait of Hokuai,’ 2015, by Sawa Sakura. (AN photos/Supplied)

Hokusai created his manga using woodblock printing, transferring the images onto paper in three primary colors: Black, gray and pale peach. The collection, comprising 4,000 illustrations across almost 800 pages, was published between 1814 and 1878 in 15 volumes bound with string.

The phrase denshin kaishu, which precedes the title, translates to “transmitting the spirit and learning the craft,” highlighting the collection’s educational purpose.




Hosted at Bait Amir Bahar in Al-Balad, one of Jeddah’s historic homes, the Manga Hokusai Manga exhibition showcases the cultural depth of Japanese storytelling. (AN photos/Supplied)

Hokusai Manga was originally used as a reference book for aspiring artists, much like today’s “How to Draw Manga” guides. Similar to modern fan-made manga, his work encouraged learning, copying and artistic experimentation.

In an exclusive interview with Arab News, Daisuke Yamamoto, the consul-general of Japan in Jeddah, described Hokusai as one of Japan’s greatest artists, modernizing traditional print styles through innovations in subject matter and composition.




Daisuke Yamamoto, Consul-general of Japan in Jeddah

“Hokusai transformed the ukiyo-e genre traditionally focused on images of fleeting pleasures — by shifting its emphasis from people to landscapes and the changing seasons,” Yamamoto said. “His print designs invited audiences to witness nature’s transience, capturing birds in flight, flowers in bloom and water in motion. Through his work, he blended an acute awareness of the fleeting with a deep appreciation for the timeless.”

According to an official statement, Hokusai’s work captured Japan’s diverse landscapes, portraying scenes and activities connected by shared symbols and narratives. He was among the first artists to both shape and be shaped by globalization, drawing from international influences and later inspiring European artists who adopted his decorative motifs, serialized compositions and vision of contemporary society. To this day, countless artists continue to engage with his legacy.

(This exhibition) provides an opportunity for a wide range of people to know about each other’s culture, which will be reflected in the future in their understanding of each other and facilitate all other aspects of cooperation.

Daisuke Yamamoto, Consul-general of Japan in Jeddah

Reflecting on the exhibition’s significance, Yamamoto highlighted its role in strengthening cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan: “Holding this exhibition and other cultural events basically confirmed the excellent cultural cooperation between Japan and Saudi Arabia, and strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation, and provides an opportunity for a wide range of people to know about each other’s culture, which will be reflected in the future in their understanding of each other and facilitate all other aspects of cooperation.”




Hokusai’s manga drawings, while sometimes resembling cartoons, encompass a wide variety of subjects, from nature to human expressions and everyday life. (AN photos/Supplied)

Since the 1970s, Hokusai himself has appeared as a character in manga, reimagined by various artists in styles ranging from realistic portrayals to fantastical interpretations. This reflects manga’s evolution, blending historical figures with contemporary storytelling techniques.

Ukiyo-e, the popular art of the 18th and 19th centuries, foreshadowed comic techniques such as visualizing the invisible. However, its speech-like balloons often depicted dreams rather than dialogue, and weather lines were integrated into the scene rather than used as abstract symbols.




Hosted at Bait Amir Bahar in Al-Balad, one of Jeddah’s historic homes, the Manga Hokusai Manga exhibition showcases the cultural depth of Japanese storytelling. (AN photos/Supplied)

Hokusai’s most popular collection of printed drawings was named “manga.” While the collection is primarily known for its diverse subjects and painting style, its frequent portrayal of exaggerated expressions and acrobatic scenes has led many to associate “manga” with cartoons or humorous images.

When compared to the work of his contemporary, Utagawa Kuniyoshi, it becomes clear that Hokusai’s manga images were not necessarily intended to be funny.

In 19th-century Japan, the success of Hokusai’s manga was rooted in the balance between the mundane and the whimsical, instruction and entertainment. This blend helped secure the collection’s lasting appeal.

Today’s Japanese comics share similarities in content, particularly in their focus on capturing movement, and in their wide circulation, thanks to advancements in reproduction technology.

 


White House thanks Saudi crown prince for facilitating Russia and Ukraine talks

White House thanks Saudi crown prince for facilitating Russia and Ukraine talks
Updated 26 March 2025
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White House thanks Saudi crown prince for facilitating Russia and Ukraine talks

White House thanks Saudi crown prince for facilitating Russia and Ukraine talks

RIYADH: The White House on Tuesday thanked Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on facilitating important talks on safe navigation in the Black Sea.
A White House statement said: “The United States expresses gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his leadership and hospitality in once again facilitating these important discussions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
The US reached separate agreements with Russia and Ukraine in the Saudi capital Riyadh to keep the waterway, a vital route for agricultural goods, secure.
The two warring parties came to Saudi Arabia to discuss, with US and Saudi officials, first steps on settling crucial issues in the hopes of then reaching a wider resolution to the conflict.
Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022 and has annexed parts of the country.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the talks and said they were early steps toward a peaceful settlement.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said: “We will need clear guarantees. And given the sad experience of agreements with just Kyiv, the guarantees can only be the result of an order from Washington to Zelensky and his team to do one thing and not the other.”


Ramadan through the lens of art

Saudi photographer Sultan Al-Qahtani captures crescent moons, street scenes and family gatherings as central elements. (Supplied
Saudi photographer Sultan Al-Qahtani captures crescent moons, street scenes and family gatherings as central elements. (Supplied
Updated 25 March 2025
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Ramadan through the lens of art

Saudi photographer Sultan Al-Qahtani captures crescent moons, street scenes and family gatherings as central elements. (Supplied
  • Holy month inspires creative process
  • Themes of faith and introspection reflected in artwork

RIYADH: The holy month of Ramadan offers profound creative inspiration with its themes of faith, renewal and introspection, three Saudi artists have told Arab News.

Norah Al-Ruwaili, Manar Al-Otaibi and Sultan Al-Qahtani discussed how Ramadan shapes their artistic expression.

For Al-Ruwaili, the holy month allows her to engage with her work more deeply. “Ramadan naturally slows everything down, creating space for reflection and intentionality,” she said.

 An artwork featuring floral patterns and Arabic calligraphy. (Supplied/@noras.scribbles)

“That shift influences my art. I become more mindful of the themes I explore and the emotions I want to convey.”

Al-Otaibi echoed this sentiment, describing how Ramadan transforms her approach to creativity.

“Ramadan deeply influences my artistic process by bringing a sense of stillness, introspection and spirituality,” she said.

Usually warmth is presented in the sunny days. In Ramadan, nights lights are vibrant and reflect warmth.

Sultan Al-Qahtani

For Al-Qahtani, a photographer, Ramadan shifts his focus to nighttime settings and the beauty of lights in the holy month. “Usually warmth is presented in the sunny days. In Ramadan, nights lights are vibrant and reflect warmth,” he said.

Al-Ruwaili finds herself “drawn to themes of stillness, spirituality and inner transformation.

“Patterns, calligraphy and elements inspired by prayer mats or architecture often appear in my work, like in my Mihrab paintings.

A vibrant mihrab-inspired artwork adorned with red floral elements. (Supplied/@noras.scribbles)

“I also love incorporating symbolism, whether through floral elements that represent spiritual blossoming or color choices that evoke serenity and depth,” she said.

Al-Otaibi uses “vibrant colors and intricate patterns” to express the emotions of the holy month.

For Al-Qahtani, Ramadan photography records the community spirit; he captures crescent moons, street scenes and family gatherings as central elements.

Al-Ruwaili said that spirituality and creativity are inseparable during Ramadan: “Creativity and spirituality aren’t separate for me, they intertwine. My artistic process becomes quieter and more intentional during Ramadan, almost like a form of meditation.”

But balancing creative work with fasting and responsibilities is a challenge, Al-Otaibi said. “It can be challenging, especially with work and other responsibilities. However, I often feel refreshed and inspired after iftar, which helps me reconnect with my creative flow,” she added.

Al-Qahtani experiences creative moments spontaneously, often between prayers and meals: “Creative moments are not planned but sometimes it can be harnessed late at night between prayers and meals.”

Representing the true spirit of Ramadan in visual art is not always easy. For Al-Ruwaili, moving beyond traditional imagery like lanterns and crescents to capture the feeling of Ramadan is her biggest challenge.

“Ramadan is deeply personal and spiritual, so visually representing its essence without being overly literal can be challenging,” she said.

“I try to move beyond traditional symbols like lanterns or crescents and focus more on the feeling of Ramadan: The sense of peace, renewal and contemplation.”

Al-Otaibi also struggles to visually depict the intangible elements of the holy month. “One challenge is translating the atmosphere of Ramadan into visual art, through key elements like the moon, fanous lights and family gatherings.

For Al-Qahtani, the challenge lies in capturing aesthetic nighttime lighting without overexposing the image: “Since most of the pictures I take are in the night, (I need) proper lighting — aesthetically pleasing lights, not just lots of lights.”

Al-Ruwaili’s Mihrab digital paintings hold a deep personal meaning: “My Mihrab digital paintings are probably the clearest example. They were inspired by the patterns found in prayer mats, which hold so much significance in daily spiritual practice.

“To me, they represent a sacred space; a personal retreat where stillness and connection meet,” she said.

Al-Otaibi created a painting of a family gathering during suhoor, which “represents togetherness, tradition and the quiet beauty of Ramadan nights.”

Al-Qahtani’s photography showcases Ramadan’s lights and the communal spirit.

Through painting, photography and digital art, the three artists capture the essence of the holy month, reflecting a period that is both personal and universally meaningful.

 


Riyadh to host occupational safety talks in May

Riyadh to host occupational safety talks in May
Updated 25 March 2025
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Riyadh to host occupational safety talks in May

Riyadh to host occupational safety talks in May
  • Al-Rajhi highlighted the event as a milestone in advancing global dialogue on occupational safety and health and improving compliance with standards at regional and global levels

RIYADH: The 7th Global Occupational Safety and Health Conference will be held in Riyadh from May 4 to 6, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The event will gather local and international leaders from governments, the private sector, and academia, to discuss the future of occupational safety and health, as well as challenges and opportunities in global labor markets.

Ahmed Al-Rajhi, Human Resources and Social Development Minister. (SPA)

The conference aims to promote a culture of safety by fostering dialogue on the latest trends, innovations, and best practices while sharing essential knowledge, the SPA reported.

It will focus on developing policies and preventive measures to enhance occupational safety and health, with an emphasis on the role of technology in improving workplace environments.

Saudi Arabia’s Human Resources and Social Development Minister Ahmed Al-Rajhi said: “The conference will address critical issues impacting work ecosystems and work on developing optimal frameworks.”

Al-Rajhi highlighted the event as a milestone in advancing global dialogue on occupational safety and health and improving compliance with standards at regional and global levels.

 


Governor opens new Altanfeethi Lounge at Madinah airport

Governor opens new Altanfeethi Lounge at Madinah airport
Updated 25 March 2025
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Governor opens new Altanfeethi Lounge at Madinah airport

Governor opens new Altanfeethi Lounge at Madinah airport
  • Spanning 1,200 sq. meters, the lounge can accommodate over 240,000 passengers annually

MADINAH: Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz has opened the new Altanfeethi Lounge at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport.

Spanning 1,200 sq. meters, the lounge can accommodate over 240,000 passengers annually, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The inauguration was attended by the General Authority of Civil Aviation’s President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, and Mohammed Alkhuraisi, the chairman of the Altanfeethi Company’s board of directors, along with regional civil and military officials.

 


Comoros president arrives in Madinah

The President of Comoros Azali Assoumani arrives in Madinah on Tuesday. (SPA)
The President of Comoros Azali Assoumani arrives in Madinah on Tuesday. (SPA)
Updated 25 March 2025
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Comoros president arrives in Madinah

The President of Comoros Azali Assoumani arrives in Madinah on Tuesday. (SPA)

RIYADH: The President of Comoros Azali Assoumani arrived in Madinah on Tuesday, Saudi Press Agency reported.

Assoumani was received on arrival by the Governor of Madinah region Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz and other officials.