DESIGNS: A Mamoru Nagano Retrospective
From January 17th to February 11th, 2025, the Grand Front Osaka North Building will host a comprehensive exhibition dedicated to the work of Mamoru Nagano, a designer renowned for his contributions to the worlds of manga and anime. This event, titled "DESIGNS," offers a rare opportunity to delve into the creative process behind Nagano’s most iconic works, including "The Five Star Stories," "Heavy Metal L-Gaim," and "Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam."
A Unique Opportunity for Fans and Design Enthusiasts
The exhibition will showcase approximately 380 items, carefully selected to represent the breadth and depth of Nagano’s career. Visitors can expect to see original drawings, illustrations, setting materials, and rough sketches, providing an intimate look at the evolution of his designs. The collection spans from pieces predating his commercial debut to his more recent work on "Gothicmade," offering a comprehensive overview of his artistic journey.
Unlike previous exhibitions that may have focused on a single title or period, "DESIGNS" presents a holistic view of Nagano’s oeuvre. This approach allows attendees to appreciate the interconnectedness of his various projects and to trace the development of his distinctive style over time.
Event Details
The exhibition will be held at the Knowledge Capital Event Lab, located on the B1 floor of the Grand Front Osaka North Building (3-1 Ofukamachi, Kita-ku, Osaka). The venue is easily accessible and provides ample space to comfortably view the extensive collection.
Dates: January 17th (Friday) to February 11th (Tuesday/Holiday), 2025
Hours: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Last entry at 6:30 PM)
Admission Fees:
- General: 2,300 yen (2,000 yen for advance tickets)
- University/Vocational/High School Students: 2,100 yen (1,800 yen for advance tickets)
- Junior High/Elementary School Students: 1,000 yen (800 yen for advance tickets)
Advance tickets can be purchased until 11:59 PM on January 16th.
Additional Information
In addition to the exhibited works, the event will feature a selection of original merchandise available for purchase. This provides an opportunity for fans to acquire unique items related to Nagano’s designs.
For inquiries, please contact Hello Dial at 050-5542-8600. The service is available daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Further details about the exhibition can be found on the official website: https://naganomamoru-osaka-exhibition.com/
What is Five Star Stories?
"Five Star Stories" is a manga series by Mamoru Nagano, first serialized in 1986. It is set in the Joker System, a distant galaxy with diverse star systems, each featuring unique cultures and political dynamics. The series is known for its detailed storytelling, complex characters, and Nagano’s distinctive art style.
Central to "Five Star Stories" are the Mortar Headds, large, intricately designed mecha piloted by knights called Headdliners. These machines are both technological and artistic achievements, showcasing Nagano’s expertise in mechanical design. The narrative explores themes of power, loyalty, and destiny, focusing on characters like the enigmatic Amaterasu and the Fatima, genetically engineered beings who assist in piloting the Mortar Headds.
Nagano’s world-building is thorough, featuring a detailed setting with a complex history and diverse societies. "Five Star Stories" is more than a tale of battles and political intrigue; it also reflects on beauty, the passage of time, and the balance between order and chaos. The series has a dedicated following and is considered a classic in the mecha genre, influencing both manga and anime with its innovative approach and artistic vision.
