For decades, anime and manga were viewed as disposable entertainment, with original artworks often discarded after use. However, their status has evolved, and today, anime and manga are recognized as significant cultural assets, representing a vital part of Japan’s media landscape and its global identity. To preserve these cherished art forms, the Japanese government has announced plans to establish a national archive dedicated to the collection, preservation, and exhibition of original anime cels and manga artwork.
A Cultural Shift in Perspective
Historically, anime and manga were not treated as art to be preserved. Studios often disposed of animation cels once production was complete, considering them mere by-products. However, times have changed. Anime and manga have become global cultural phenomena, celebrated for their artistic value and their ability to reflect contemporary societal values. Recognizing their importance, Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs, part of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology, has laid out plans for a national archive to ensure these original pieces are protected for future generations.
Plans for a National Archive
The Agency for Cultural Affairs held discussions, which included notable figures such as Evangelion creator Hideaki Anno and manga artist Machiko Satonaka, to outline the creation of a dedicated archive. This archive aims to collect and preserve original anime cels and manga genga—the hand-drawn artworks used in the production process. The initiative will also focus on training specialists in the field of preservation to ensure these valuable pieces are handled with care.
The plan envisions housing the archive at the Sagamihara branch of the National Film Archive, with formal operations expected to begin by fiscal 2028. The center will serve more than just a storage facility; it is set to become a hub for cultural exchange and education. With collaboration from other institutions, both within Japan and overseas, the archive will aim to promote greater understanding and appreciation of anime and manga.
Comprehensive Collection and Digitization
The upcoming Media Arts National Center will serve as a comprehensive repository, not just for animation cels and original manga drawings but also for supplementary materials such as artist interviews, idea notes, and production notes. Additionally, plans are in place to digitize these works, provided agreements with copyright holders are reached. Digitization will allow wider access to these treasures, ensuring that the artwork can be appreciated by fans and researchers worldwide without risking damage to the originals.
Learning from History: A Parallel with Ukiyo-e
The agency’s efforts to preserve anime and manga parallel the historical narrative of ukiyo-e woodblock prints, which were popular in the 17th to early 19th centuries. Similar to how ukiyo-e prints were undervalued and often discarded, many anime cels and manga drawings were treated as disposable. However, as ukiyo-e gained recognition for its cultural value over time, there is now a renewed effort to ensure anime and manga do not face the same fate. By preserving these artworks, the agency seeks to safeguard a vital part of Japan’s cultural heritage.
Preserving Competitive Edge and Cultural Identity
The government’s approach isn’t just about preserving art; it’s also about reinforcing Japan’s competitive edge in the global content industry. With the market for manga, animation, and games valued at ¥123.6 trillion in 2019, surpassing even the petrochemical and semiconductor industries, the economic significance is clear. Furthermore, there has been a surge in government-backed manga museums across East Asia, including China, South Korea, and Taiwan, which underscores the growing competition in promoting cultural exports. Through collaboration with the private sector, Japan aims to bolster the spread of its content industry globally, ensuring that it remains a leader in the field.
Looking to the Future: Exhibition and Education
Beyond preservation, the planned facility will feature exhibition areas that allow visitors to engage directly with these artworks, fostering greater interest and understanding of the anime and manga production process. By providing a dedicated space for exhibitions, education, and research, the government hopes to nurture a deeper appreciation of the cultural, historical, and artistic value of these mediums.
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