FabCafe Tokyo reading and presentation with Yumi Sakugawa

COMICS BESTIES: MARINAOMI AND YUMI SAKUGAWA

Statement for the Art Show (begins one week prior to the event)

MariNaomi and Yumi Sakugawa are American visual storytellers who first met online in 2012. The nature of their work (experimental independent comics exploring their Japanese heritage) and shared struggles finding footing in a predominantly white, sexist industry strengthened their allyship. Shortly after meeting, Mari moved from San Francisco to Yumi’s Los Angeles, and they became friends in real life. They met regularly for work dates, gallery and museum outings, and hiking in the mountains, comparing their experiences, both professional and personal. They share love for tasty food, fashion photoshoots in the desert, and having adventures.

Over the years, Mari and Yumi have had many art shows, readings, and book signings together. In 2021, Mari moved back to the San Francisco Bay Area, but their friendship was set. Yumi and Mari continue to talk every day, and are excited to come together in Japan to realize their lifelong dream of connecting with a Tokyo audience.