I mentioned a few times that my adventure with fandom started thanks to the Polish TV airing Slayers anime. As per the “best school of Polish translations” it was called Magiczni Wojownicy which means Magical Warriors. Yet, I can forgive this, as the show changed my life in a way I didn’t expect then. What is important is that when I was planning my trip to Japan I learned that there will be an exhibition to commemorate 35 years of Slayers… Of course I had to visit it!
Excitement
On my way to the venue, I felt like a much younger person. I was almost jumping from joy. It is amazing to become childish from time to time, and it was a great occasion to do so. Somewhere at the back of my head I had the thought of not being too excited, as it may lead to big disappointment. Yet, how could I not feel excitement? Even if I could, I didn’t want to, and I am glad for that.
This is how a happy anime fan looks like ;).
At the door I saw a poster and it was a next boost of dopamine. Sadly, a few steps further I saw that photo ban. Fortunately, at the counter I learned that photographing with mobile phones was ok. This was good enough. On some previous manga exhibitions I was taking a lot of pictures, but this time I took even more. There were two types of tickets – regular one, and a special one. The latter came with a commemorative plate featuring Lina Inverse. I decided to buy the second one… Together with the ticket I also got an envelope with a printout of a single page from Slayers manga. A nice souvenir!
All the Prints
Was I disappointed? Were my expectations too high? Yes. No. Not exactly.
There were few original artworks, which was disappointing. The main body of the exhibition contained other items. In the end it was not such a big issue, and I came out very satisfied.
Lina Inverse made of covers of publications about her adventures.
So what was there to see? At first there was a timeline Slayers publications and anime. Following was a big poster featuring Lina Inverse and it stole my heart. It was constructed with cover miniatures of Slayers publications. I must say, however, that they didn’t base on the covers colours, but added colours on top of them to make Lina stand out. Still a neat idea.
Later on, there was an exhibition of Light Novels and magazines. Next I went to the part presenting information on the main characters and the plot of Light Novels. They were surrounded by prints and sometimes figures. Next room featured some interesting items. First was a painting prepared for the exhibition. (At least it was my understanding). Next it was a small space with floppy disks containing original manuscripts. On the wall there was an interview with Hajime Kanzaka – the creator of Slayers.
A piece made for the exhibition – at least this is what I understood.
Once I finished that part, I moved further and finally had a chance to see the artwork. Sadly, those were not originals, but prints of excellent quality. What I mean is that they looked exactly like originals – including stains from the scotch tape etc. Why we got prints and not originals? This I don’t know, but it it was the biggest downside of the event. On the other hand, vast majority of prints were accompanied by a short comments from Rui Araizumi – the creator of the visual part of the franchise. Those were pretty interesting and gave good insights into the history of the series.
And the Original Art
Finally I reached a smaller part of the exhibition featuring original art. Those were amazing to see. It was just a few pieces but I spent some time looking at the details. Later on there were some more pictures and anime cels. I believe that at least part of those items were originals.
One of a few original pieces of art. Those are the main characters although to have a full cast it would require to add some more.
Near the exit one could participate in the VR experience (paid separately). I skipped that part, as the visuals of 3D Lina looked more appalling than appealing. The last part of the exhibition featured flip charts encouraging visitors to share their thoughts. I didn’t understand notes left by other, as I don’t speak Japanese. What I appreciated, however, were pictures of the characters from the series. It was good to know there were way more fans of the thing I love.
I hoped to buy a t-shirt in the shopping area, but the designs were so-so, and print quality looked rather mediocre. In the end, I bought some other souvenirs. The must have was a catalogue from the exhibition, but I also got some other items, including postcards.
A space to express ones love to The Slayers
Great Time
So, did I enjoy the visit? Immensely! Should there be another one commemorating 40 years of franchise I would love to see it too! What I would like even more would be to meet both creators and have a chance to talk with them. This would be amazing for sure. I am not sure whether there will ever be an opportunity for that though. Still, seeing the exhibition was way more than the young me dared to dream about. Now I need to go back to the catalogue of the exhibition to learn even more about Slayers!
My next post is being written and should appear within two weeks.