Studio Ghibli’s enchanting world is coming to life at the ArtScience Museum in Singapore from 4 October 2024 to 2 February 2025. Fans of the beloved Japanese animation studio will be immersed in a magical journey through iconic films like My Neighbour Totoro (1988), Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989), and Spirited Away (2001). As the first official Studio Ghibli exhibition in Singapore, this spectacular experience promises to be one of the largest exhibitions ever held at the museum, featuring 11 transformed galleries and immersive sets.
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The exhibition, The World of Studio Ghibli, is organised by the ArtScience Museum under the license of award winning animation powerhouse Studio Ghibli. At the heart of the exhibit are 16 meticulously crafted, large-scale, immersive theatrical sets, built by a specialised team of Japanese artists. These installations transport visitors directly into Studio Ghibli’s enchanting worlds, allowing them to step into iconic scenes, like wandering through the lush forest of Princess Mononoke or hopping on a train with No Face from Spirited Away.
Studio Ghibli’s rich history dates back to 1985, when it was founded by directors Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and producer Toshio Suzuki. Over nearly four decades, the studio has captivated audiences with its visually stunning, hand-drawn animations, memorable characters and universal themes. Films like Spirited Away (2001), The Boy and the Heron (2023), and Princess Mononoke (1997) have garnered global acclaim, with many receiving prestigious awards, including Academy Awards. The exhibition also highlights Studio Ghibli’s influence in breaking gender stereotypes through its portrayal of strong, independent female protagonists, such as Chihiro in Spirited Away and San in Princess Mononoke.
Visitors to the exhibition will be greeted by a grand sculpture from Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea at the museum’s lily pond. Inside, immersive installations bring scenes from Howl’s Moving Castle, Castle in the Sky, and My Neighbour Totoro to life, while Level 3 galleries feature original sculptures from films such as Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) and Kiki’s Delivery Service.
Highlights from The World of Studio Ghibli as follows
Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
My Neighbour Totoro (1988)
As visitors step into the ArtScience Museum, they are immediately welcomed by an impressive sculpture from Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea (2008), positioned prominently in the museum’s tranquil lily pond. The immersive journey unfolds as visitors move to the Basement 2 galleries, where captivating scenes from Howl’s Moving Castle (2004), Castle in the Sky (1986), and My Neighbour Totoro (1988) come to life. On Level 3, the exhibition continues with stunning original sculptures and theatrical sets from a range of other Ghibli classics, such as Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984), Porco Rosso (1992), Pom Poko (1994), Princess Mononoke (1997), Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989), Spirited Away (2001), and the latest release, The Boy and the Heron (2023).
Gütiokipänjä Bakery in Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
The exhibition provides countless moments for fans to fully immerse themselves in their favourite Studio Ghibli scenes and step into the magical worlds of its iconic films. Visitors can stroll through the dense forest of Princess Mononoke, explore the whimsical intricacies of Howl’s castle, travel down a grassy tunnel that leads to Totoro’s cave, or even become a customer at Gütiokipänjä bakery, where Kiki and her cat Jiji work. Other highlights include boarding a train with No Face or sharing a serene moment in the rain while waiting with Totoro.
The exhibition’s art installations allow visitors to step directly into some of Studio Ghibli’s most unforgettable moments. You can join Pazu and Sheeta in a thrilling chase along railway tracks from Castle in the Sky (1986) or become part of the dramatic airship scene from Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989), where you can either take on Tombo’s role, hanging from the airship, or embody Kiki as she swoops in to save him on her flying broomstick.
Beyond these dynamic sets, The World of Studio Ghibli also features 16 box art installations specially crafted by the Studio. These original works offer viewers a close-up look at key moments from the films, providing detailed glimpses into the rich, intricate visuals that bring the Ghibli universe to life.
No Face on the Sea Railway in Spirited Away (2001)
Originally debuted in Japan in 2013 and later showcased in South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Bangkok, this edition of The World of Studio Ghibli at the ArtScience Museum has been significantly revamped. It features a variety of new elements and never-before-seen additions. Movie frames are transformed into stunning large-scale graphics, while familiar objects from the films are brought to life as physical props for the first time. Visitors can delve deeper into Studio Ghibli’s intricate world-building, uncovering details they may have missed on screen. Keep an eye out for playful easter eggs, like local delicacies incorporated into No Face’s feast.
Take Home a Piece of Studio Ghibli’s Magic
Visitors to the exhibition can make lasting memories by bringing home special keepsakes from The World of Studio Ghibli. This edition of the exhibition includes three unique in-gallery activity spaces designed by the ArtScience Museum’s Education team, reflecting the themes of reflection and mindfulness present in Ghibli films. Visitors are encouraged to take a moment to slow down and engage in interactive activities such as drawing soot sprites from Spirited Away (2001), writing heartfelt notes of gratitude inspired by Totoro, and creating their own thaumatrope animation devices featuring characters from My Neighbour Totoro (1988).
Before leaving, fans can also stop by the retail store on Level 3, which offers an array of official Studio Ghibli merchandise, ensuring that everyone can take a piece of the Ghibli magic home with them.
The exhibition will feature a variety of programs that delve into the storytelling and animation techniques of Studio Ghibli. Kicking off on October 5, an opening symposium will host Atsushi Okui (Director of Digital Imaging) and Shinsuke Nonaka (Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs) from Studio Ghibli. They will engage in an insightful discussion about the Studio’s production processes, including composite and effect works, and share rare, first-hand stories from their behind-the-scenes experiences.
Additionally, ArtScience Cinema will host free screenings of two documentaries on Level 4 of the Museum: Kazuo Oga – Ghibli’s Image Artisan – The Artist Who Made Totoro’s Forest (2007) and The Kingdom of Dreams and Madness (2013), directed by Mami Sunada. These films offer a unique look into the inner workings of one of the most celebrated animation studios in history.
Visitors are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates, as more exciting programs and activations will be announced during the exhibition, including a film festival featuring several Studio Ghibli films screening in theaters across the island.
Overall, The World of Studio Ghibli at the ArtScience Museum is an impressive and beautifully curated exhibition that invites you to step into the magical world of one of the greatest animation studios of all time. Whether you are a die-hard fan or new to Studio Ghibli’s films, this exhibition is a deeply enriching experience filled with beauty, nostalgia, and wonder. Don’t miss it!
The World of Studio Ghibli will take place from October 4, 2024, to February 2, 2025. For more information on The World of Studio Ghibli and its programs, please visit https://www.marinabaysands.com/museum/exhibitions/studio-ghibli.html
