News

Manga Artist London Talk on July 1

The Japan Foundation in Russell Square, London (map), has announced the following event on Tuesday July 1, starting at 6.30 p.m.

Garo, Hayashi became renowned for pioneering new territory in the medium of comics, with stories ranging from allegorical critiques of postwar Americanisation and the Vietnam War, to touching reflections on motherhood inspired by Japanese woodblock prints and pop music. Hayashi is perhaps best known for his graphic novel masterpiece Red Coloured Elegy (Sekishoku Erejii, 1970-71) and his distinctive character designs for Lotte Koume (Little Plum) candy drops, which debuted in 1974. His images of a young girl in kimono still remain on the sweet's packaging today.

The Japan Foundation is delighted to host Seiichi Hayashi for this special event, exploring the significance of Hayashi's achievements and introduce his multi-faceted work to a UK audience. In conversation with art historian Ryan Holmberg, who will begin with an introduction to the counterculture of the 1960s, Hayashi will speak about his comics, animation, and illustration work, as well as his central participation in this most innovative and turbulent era of postwar Japanese history. The event will be a rare opportunity to hear a Japanese artistic legend speak about his life and work.

This event is free to attend but booking is essential. To reserve a place, please email [email protected]