“Peanuts” was serialized in newspapers for 50 years, from 1950 to 2000, by Charles M. Schulz (1922–2000). By 1999, when Schulz announced his retirement, the strip was published in 2,600 newspapers across 75 countries, attesting to its global popularity. It has also significantly influenced various cultural spheres, including theater, music, and fashion. In Japan, the translations were handled by poet Shuntaro Tanikawa. The work is recognized as a quintessential piece of 20th-century American art.

Cel animation from "Snoopy vs. The Pumpkin Eater" (1966) © 2013 Peanuts Worldwide LLC

Schulz in his studio. Photograph by Tom Vano © 2013 Peanuts Worldwide LLC

The exhibition features over 70 characters, including Snoopy, Woodstock the little bird, Charlie Brown, Lucy, and Linus. The simple illustrations and rhythmic lettering, depicting the everyday lives of these unique characters—filled with laughter and poignant moments—continue to be loved by people of all ages.

The Mori Arts Center Gallery is now hosting an exhibition that deeply explores the world of Snoopy. For the first time in Japan, approximately 100 original drawings, carefully selected from 50 years of “Peanuts” and held by the Charles M. Schulz Museum in the United States, are on display, allowing visitors to trace their evolution and savor their stories. The exhibition also presents a wealth of supplementary materials, including photographs and sketches from Schulz’s childhood leading up to the eve of “Peanuts’” birth, as well as original drawings from his early works.

The exhibition also recreates Schulz’s studio, where he worked on his creations, and screens videos of him drawing “Peanuts.” Visitors can also experience the broader impact of the series through animations and vintage merchandise.

This unprecedented exhibition offers a profound understanding of the entirety of “Peanuts” and Snoopy himself, through the display of large, beautiful original works drawn with nuanced black ink. By the time you leave, your heart will surely be filled with Snoopy, leaving you feeling happy and even more fond of him.

Exhibition Dates: Saturday, October 12, 2013 – Sunday, January 5, 2014
Hours: 10:00 – 20:00 (Tuesdays until 17:00, except December 31)
Special extended hours: December 26 (Thu) – January 5 (Sun), 10:00 – 22:00 (last admission 21:00)
Venue: Mori Arts Center Gallery
52F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-5777-8600
Admission: General/University Students ¥2000, Junior/Senior High School Students ¥1500, Children (4 years old to elementary school) ¥800