Amin Abbas

DUBAI: Japanese artists Rena Masuyama, Nonchi & Rika Azuma participated at Kinokuniya bookstore in Dubai Mall and featured their artworks to the visitors as part of Free Comic Book Day 2023 activities at the bookstore.

Rena Masumyama told Arab News Japan that at at Kinokuniya’s Dubai Mall, people of different nationalities gathered. 

“It was great to see the power. It was fun to interact with young people and children who want to become artists and manga artists,” Masumyama said.

“I want to move my base to Dubai, where everyone always gathers, and create a full-fledged Arab and Japanese cultural hub,” she added.

Nonchi told Arab News Japan about her participation: “I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who happened to visit the store and took a moment to check out my artwork.”

“Dubai holds a special place in my heart with its mesmerizing scenery and vibrant culture. I can’t wait to go back and immerse myself in new experiences. The memories created in Dubai will forever be etched in my mind. Thank you sincerely for encountering my work at the store,” she added.

Steve Jones from Kinokuniya Bookstore said that Free Comic Book Day is “very dear to the hearts of Kinokuniya bookstore in the UAE.”

“It’s a celebration of not only comics but of popular culture. More than 8,000 Otaku’s and fans of all types of comics, books, movies, and tv series joined together to share their passion – making Free Comic Book Day our biggest day in history,” Jones said. 

“We were also fortunate to have several Japanese artists represented this year – who showed off their skills and celebrated the close connection between the UAE and Japan. We are already have plans to make 2024 Free Comic Book Day bigger and better,” he added.

Other activities were featured at Kinokuniya bookstore in Dubai such as tabletop games, cosplay & more.