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Ponyo Exhibition by Studio Ghibli at Academy Museum is a Magical Experience that is to Boost Tourism with Rare Artwork and Hands-on New Animation Tools
Published on
February 17, 2026
Image generated with AiThe Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles is currently hosting an immersive exhibition devoted beloved animated film Ponyo by Studio Ghibli, created by renowned director Hayao Miyazaki. This interactive exhibition, which opened on February 14, invites visitors into the fantastical ocean world of Ponyo through rare artwork, production sketches, and hands-on activities that bring the magic of Miyazaki’s world to life. Aimed particularly at children, the exhibition promises to be a memorable experience for both animation lovers and families visiting Los Angeles.
Boosting Los Angeles Tourism with Studio Ghibli’s Iconic ArtThe exhibition, which brings together more than 100 original materials, offers a rare glimpse into the creative genius behind Ponyo, a 2008 hand-drawn fantasy film that tells the heartwarming tale of a goldfish-like girl yearning to become human. As part of Los Angeles’ tourism scene, this immersive experience is set to attract animation enthusiasts, families, and tourists alike, adding another exciting cultural attraction to the city’s lineup.
Located in the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, a significant cultural institution in Los Angeles, this exhibition provides a chance for visitors to experience the magic of Studio Ghibli up close. The museum, known for showcasing the history of film, has now integrated Ponyo’s world into its offerings, providing a powerful boost to both cultural tourism and the overall Los Angeles tourism economy.
With over 100 original materials on display, including hand-drawn art boards, production sketches, and even stop-motion animation tools, this exhibition offers an exciting opportunity for fans of all ages to engage with Miyazaki’s work in an interactive way. Through an interactive animation table, visitors can try their hand at creating their own stop-motion sequences, which adds an educational element to the exhibition. This hands-on experience makes the exhibition especially attractive for families and younger visitors, encouraging creativity and giving a deeper understanding of how the animation process works.Advertisement
AdvertisementPonyo: An Iconic Miyazaki FilmAt the heart of the Ponyo exhibition is the 2008 film, which is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale “The Little Mermaid”. The film tells the story of a young goldfish princess named Ponyo, who becomes stranded on land and is taken in by a five-year-old boy named Sosuke. As they bond, Ponyo longs to become human, setting off a sequence of events that showcase the magic and beauty of the ocean.
Ponyo is one of Miyazaki’s most beloved works and is often regarded as a deeply personal film for the animator. The exhibition allows visitors to dive into the film’s vivid color palettes and whimsical illustrations that have made it a fan favorite for years. Jessica Niebel, senior exhibitions curator at the Academy Museum, explains that the film holds a special place in Miyazaki’s filmography, particularly because it is geared toward a younger audience, making it accessible and appealing to children and families.AdvertisementAdvertisementTourism Potenti …