Studio Ghibli is celebrated worldwide for its exceptional contributions to both the anime community and the broader movie industry. Renowned for its stunning artwork, the Japanese studio stands out for its dedication to hand-drawn animation, a technique it continues to champion even as other studios increasingly rely on computer-generated imagery. Studio Ghibli’s commitment to traditional animation techniques allows it to create beautifully detailed scenes that celebrate and romanticize the simplicity of everyday life.

Art Honoring Studio Ghibli’s Values

A few years ago, Studio Ghibli entered a unique collaboration with a famous tapestry designer who was given the privilege to use the studio’s designs as inspirations for creating traditional tapestries. These tapestries, an unconventional yet perfect medium, serve as a tribute to the masterpieces that Studio Ghibli has crafted over the years. One such tapestry is now on display in Japan for the first time, as reported by PR Times at the beginning of the month.

The type of tapestry in question is known as Aubusson tapestry, originating from the Creuse region of France. Recognized by UNESCO in 2009 as a form of Intangible Cultural Heritage, Aubusson tapestries are created through intricate and time-consuming processes that have remained unchanged for 600 years. Studio Ghibli’s traditional animation techniques share this dedication to preserving the artistry of the past, rejecting easier methods in favor of time-honored practices.

A Collaboration Rooted in Tradition

The collaboration led to the creation of five tapestries, each depicting scenes from beloved Studio Ghibli films. These were produced by the Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie Museum in France under the collection titled “L’imaginaire d’Hayao Miyazaki en tapisserie d’Aubusson” (“The Imagination of Hayao Miyazaki in Aubusson Tapestry”). The shared commitment to preserving traditional art forms is what brought Studio Ghibli and the museum together, with both entities striving to create something extraordinary using ancient techniques.

The first tapestry unveiled was a scene from “Princess Mononoke” in 2022. This was followed by “Spirited Away” in January 2023 and “Howl’s Moving Castle” in April of the same year. The final two tapestries, which will feature scenes from “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” and “My Neighbor Totoro,” are still in progress. These films are among the most iconic in Studio Ghibli’s repertoire, making them fitting choices for this homage, though it should be noted that the recent success of “The Boy and the Heron” occurred after the planning of these tapestries.

From France to Japan

One of these impressive tapestries has now made its way from France to Japan for the first time. On July 1st, 2024, a special ceremony in Hiroshima marked the display of the tapestry, with curators from the French museum accompanying it on its journey. The tapestry, an astonishing 5 meters long (16.4 feet), was crafted using traditional Aubusson methods.

Studio Ghibli’s Executive Officer, Shinsuke Nonaka, commented on the tapestry, highlighting its elaborate nature and the warmth that only handmade processes can achieve. He expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration, noting how well the tapestry captured the essence of “Howl’s Moving Castle.” This sentiment underscores the tapestry’s ability to convey the same beauty and detail that characterize Studio Ghibli’s animated works.

A Fitting Homage

Tapestries, as an art form, have existed for centuries, consistently producing stunning results without altering their fundamental approach. This mirrors Studio Ghibli’s ethos of maintaining traditional techniques to create exceptional art. While many tributes to Studio Ghibli have emerged over the years, both official and fan-made, this tapestry stands out as a particularly fitting homage due to its historical and artistic significance.

Currently, the Studio Ghibli tapestry is on display in the lobby of the Hiroshima Prefectural Museum of Art until September 25th, 2024. Visitors can view the tapestry for free, as no museum ticket is required to access the lobby. This accessibility ensures that a wide audience can appreciate the intricate beauty and cultural significance of the tapestry, further cementing Studio Ghibli’s legacy as a champion of traditional art forms.

Final Thoughts

The unveiling of the Studio Ghibli tapestry in Japan is a testament to the enduring appeal and cultural importance of both Studio Ghibli and traditional Aubusson tapestry techniques. This collaboration not only celebrates the studio’s iconic films but also underscores the value of preserving artistic traditions in a rapidly changing world. As the tapestry continues to captivate audiences in Hiroshima, it stands as a beautiful reminder of the power of hand-crafted art and the timelessness of Studio Ghibli’s creations.

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