Fancy waiting in the rain with Totoro, entering Howl’s Moving Castle, or hopping on a train with No-Face? Come October, fans have the opportunity to be whisked away to fantastical realms like Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle.
The World of Studio Ghibli exhibition is set to open at the ArtScience Museum on Oct 4. Organised in collaboration with Studio Ghibli, this exhibition marks the studio’s first showcase in Singapore which explores the groundbreaking animation, storytelling, and beloved characters.
The exhibition was first presented in Japan in 2013 followed by South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and most recently, Bangkok. It has since undergone several changes over the years, with this upcoming iteration featuring new additions from Studio Ghibli’s latest film The Boy and the Heron.
Ordinary yet otherworldly
The films and stories of Japanese animation powerhouse Studio Ghibli have enchanted millions around the world since 1985. Founded by directors Isao Takahata, Hayao Miyazaki, and producer Toshio Suzuki, Studio Ghibli is renowned for its enchanting films which range from magical adventures to charming tales based on everyday life. It has also left an indelible mark on the animation industry – its films garnering critical acclaim within and beyond Japan, as well as inspiring generations of animators and storytellers with masterful hand-drawn visuals, intricate world- building, rich characters, and universal themes. Seven films have since received Academy Award nominations, with Spirited Away in 2001, and most recently, The Boy and the Heron in 2023 which won Best Animated Feature.
In one of its biggest transformations to date, ArtScience Museum will bring The World of Studio Ghibli to life across 11 galleries spanning 2,400 square metres, taking visitors on an unforgettable journey through 11 well-loved films such as My Neighbour Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Princess Mononoke, and Howl’s Moving Castle.
Visitors can immerse themselves in 16 large-scale theatrical sets that will transport them into iconic scenes of the movies. A variety of interactive box art pieces and trick-eye installations will allow visitors to take a closer look at the intricate details present in each frame of a Studio Ghibli film. Visit the laboratory of Kokiri the witch from Kiki’s Delivery Service or see a close-up of the letter Satsuki wrote to her mother about meeting Totoro.
Launching as part of ArtScience Museum’s “Year of Extraordinary Women”, The World of Studio Ghibli also seeks to spotlight the diverse female protagonists featured across its films. Themes of nature, self-discovery, technology and war are central to many of its films but so are their female protagonists. They go against stereotypes, often depicted as strong and independent, and possessing values such as compassion, love, tolerance, and respect.
Visitors can also buy official Studio Ghibli merchandise and souvenirs that have been designed exclusively for this presentation.
The World of Studio Ghibli exhibition runs from Oct 4, 2024 to Feb 2, 2025 at the ArtScience Museum. Tickets go on sale from Jul 29. From Jul 29, 10am till Aug 2, Sands Lifestyle Members have access to an exclusive five-day pre-sale, where tickets with exclusive perks and discounts will be available at Marina Bay Sands box offices and website.
