Even as it approaches the 30th anniversary of its original TV broadcast, Neon Genesis Evangelion continues to dominate the pop culture scene with a relentless stream of killer collaborations, proving its timeless appeal.
The latest drop comes from the "EVA Japonism" art project, a collaboration with ukiyo-e publisher Hansan. This third installment unveils the stunning "Evangelion Fujin & Raijin Screens," a collection of folding screens that reimagines the iconic Evas as celestial gods. The screens are available now for 29,700 JPY each on the official Ukiyo-e Kobo online store.
The "EVA Japonism" project aims to fuse Japan's centuries-old traditional arts and crafts with the globally beloved world of Evangelion, creating a fresh interpretation of modern Japanese culture.
By using traditional art forms like ukiyo-e, washi paper, woodblock printing, and folding screens, the project reinterprets the Evangelion universe, highlighting the series' deep mythological, symbolic, and spiritual themes. Previous releases include the "EVA Ukiyo-e: Three Beauties of Hakone Hachiri" and "EVA Kabuki Ukiyo-e" print collections.
▼ Previous "EVA Japonism" releases
This new series is based on the National Treasure of Japan, the "Wind God and Thunder God Screens" by Tawaraya Sōtatsu. It masterfully blends the divine figures of Fujin (Wind God) and Raijin (Thunder God) with the Evangelion units to create breathtaking new works of art.
The art specifically emulates Tawaraya Sōtatsu's unique brushwork and style, making it seem as if the master himself had painted the Evas, all while radiating a classic Japanese aesthetic. The characters are depicted not in a realistic style but with calligraphic flair, their poses and expressions symbolizing their inner worlds and backstories. The collection features five incredible pieces that showcase a perfect fusion of two worlds.
▼ Raijin (Thunder God): EVA Unit-01 / Shinji Ikari
This piece merges Raijin, the god symbolizing nature's might, with EVA Unit-01, an entity that embodies both awe-inspiring power and salvation.
Meanwhile, Shinji Ikari floats with his eyes closed, a quiet reflection of his inner turmoil and wavering sense of self amidst a cruel fate.
▼ Fujin (Wind God): EVA Unit-00 / Rei Ayanami
Here, Fujin, the guardian of humanity, is combined with EVA Unit-00, which fights alongside Unit-01 to protect the world. Rei Ayanami stands tall, reaching out toward an uncertain future even as she grapples with emptiness and confusion.
▼ Fujin (Wind God): EVA Unit-02 / Asuka
The dynamic posture and protective power of Fujin are channeled into the fierce image of EVA Unit-02. Asuka represents the courage to face crisis and duty head-on, with her unwavering determination and strong will forming the core of the artwork.
▼ Fujin (Wind God): EVA Unit-08 / Mari Makinami Illustrious
Also inspired by the guardian Fujin, this design features EVA Unit-08. Mari is depicted smiling bravely even in the face of adversity, her dynamic pose capturing her optimistic, proactive, and free-spirited personality.
▼ Fujin (Wind God): Mark.06 / Kaworu Nagisa
This screen portrays Fujin as a guiding and protective being, merged with Mark.06. Kaworu Nagisa offers a gentle, serene smile with his arms outstretched as if to embrace the entire world, showcasing his transcendent and compassionate nature.
While each piece is a complete work of art on its own, displaying two screens side-by-side creates a "dialogue" between the characters. Their gazes, gestures, and proximity interact, perfectly capturing the traditional Japanese "nikyoku isseki" (a pair of two-panel screens) composition concept.
EVA Ukiyo-e Folding Screen "EVANGELION Fujin & Raijin Screens ~Raijin-zu~"
Price: 29,700 JPY
Size: Unfolded: H 31.4 × W 43.7 × D 1.0 cm / Folded: H 31.4 × W 22.0 × D 2.0 cm
Materials: Washi paper, wood, MDF, fabric
via： 版三オンラインショップ