MOPOP Presents: Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form Opening March 8, 2025

SEATTLE--( BUSINESS WIRE )-- The Museum of Pop Culture (MOPOP), in collaboration with Barbican Immersive , is thrilled to announce the opening of Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form on March 8, 2025. This groundbreaking exhibition, the largest of its kind, showcases over 400 works from across Asia, exploring the evolution of comics from traditional art forms to contemporary digital innovations.

Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form offers visitors a deep dive into the vibrant world of Asian visual storytelling, with original artwork, rare printed comics, manga fashion, and interactive experiences. The exhibition spans countries including Japan, South Korea, India, Vietnam, and more.

“MOPOP is thrilled to host Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form, exploring the rich history of comics across Asia and their ongoing influence on popular culture. This exhibition celebrates the creativity and storytelling that continue to shape art and culture worldwide,” said Jacob McMurray, Chief Collections + Exhibitions Officer at MOPOP.

The exhibition highlights key creators, characters, and artistic movements, connecting audiences with the cultural significance of comics in Asia and their global impact.

“We are hugely excited to partner with one of the world's premier contemporary culture venues, MOPOP, to showcase this diverse collection of cultures and creators,” said Patrick Moran, Head of Commercial Strategy & Partnerships at Barbican Immersive. “Through over 400 pieces of work, we hope visitors challenge their understanding of comics, discover new artists and characters, and reconnect with cult favorites.”

“At MOPOP, we celebrate the global impact of pop culture, and this exhibition is an incredible testament to the creativity and diversity of Asian comics,” added Michele Y. Smith, CEO of MOPOP. “We invite visitors to immerse themselves in the artistry and stories that have shaped a cultural phenomenon.”

Key Highlights of the Exhibition:

• Over 280 pages of original comic art, showcasing the intricate detail and skill of Asian comic creators.
• 200 rare printed comics, including early editions of beloved classics and cult favorites.
• Manga fashion and sculptural works, celebrating the artistry and cultural influence of comics beyond the page.
• Multimedia and interactive experience, offering new ways to engage with the stories and characters.

The exhibition is curated and organized by Barbican Immersive and is supported by Western Washington Toyota Dealers and US Bank. It features a public opening event and programming designed for families, schools, and community groups. The Barbican exhibition supporter is the Japanese Gallery Kensington.

For more information about Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form and related programming, visit MOPOP's website .

ABOUT MUSEUM OF POP CULTURE (MOPOP)

MOPOP is a leading-edge nonprofit museum in Seattle, dedicated to the ideas and risk-taking that fuel contemporary pop culture. With a mission to make creative expression a life-changing force by offering experiences that inspire and connect our communities, MOPOP activates the world-shaping power of pop culture through participative experiences, discovery, and play. We reach multigenerational audiences through our collection, exhibitions, educational programs, and community partnerships. At MOPOP, artists, audiences, and ideas converge in order to bring understanding, interpretation, and scholarship to the pop culture of our time.

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