Kinokuniya and Takehiko Inoue…
Yes, if you happen to be visiting New York City, and as you step off the 2nd floor’s escalator to Kinokuniya’s only East coast location, you would be treated to this impressive wall length painted mural of Takehiko Inoue’s Vagabond. The mangaka happened to visit Kinokuniya on November 16, 2007 to celebrate and commemorate the opening of this store at the time. While I have never read Vagabond and Slam Dunk, I happen to catch up with Real when possible.
Back to talking about the Japanese bookstore, I find that I am always treated to Inoue’s artwork every time I look through my wallet, and visit NYC’s location. They do happen to use this featured mural on the annual membership of the store’s discount company. Getting this card in San Francisco, I get a kick out of knowing that this is the New York location that I am quite familiar with.
So if you happen to visit Kinokuniya in NYC, take a look at this painting, as well as remember to spot this omake painting of another Vagabond character on the stairs heading back to the 1st floor. Check out the other entries in this week’s MMF.
There’s artwork of Otsu at the staircase? I must find it now.
Hey Tony, Thanks for the comment, I didn’t know that you didn’t know…. don’t you go there as much as I do?
I was just there on Thursday. I have to take another look this time around.
This definitely makes it a place worth visiting! I remember going there and the mural was beautiful. I’m glad his artwork will forever (hopefully) be on display in NYC Kinokuniya!
Looking good
Visiting Kinokuniya is on my list of things to do when I visit NYC.
Also, I nominated you for the Sunshine Award on my blog.