“Episode One: A New Era”
Airi Hara
October 7, 2025 – January 12, 2026
Presented by Tock
This fall, THE GALLERY by Odo will spotlight Japanese manga culture alongside the spirit of autumn.
We are delighted to announce a new exhibition featuring Japanese calligrapher Airi Hara, based in New York City.
For this special presentation, Hara will create original works that merge the timeless elegance of Japanese calligraphy with the vibrant energy of manga. The gallery will be filled with internationally beloved manga characters, rendered through Hara’s expressive brushwork—the exact title of the featured series will be revealed exclusively at the exhibition.
Opening on October 7, the exhibition coincides with New York Comic Con 2025 (October 9–12), held just blocks away at the Javits Center. Fans of manga, anime, and Japanese artistry are encouraged to visit THE GALLERY by Odo to discover these freshly created works and enjoy the refined culinary offerings of Chef Hiroki Odo and his team.
Special NYCC Promotion
During New York Comic Con (October 9–12), every guest who dines with us in cosplay will be invited to play a dice game to win prizes and gifts. Everyone who plays will receive something—no one leaves empty-handed.
Opening Reception
A special ticketed opening reception will take place on October 14, 2025, 6:00 PM.. Guests will have the rare opportunity to witness Airi Hara perform live calligraphy painting at 7pm, creating an immersive and unforgettable moment.
To celebrate the occasion, Chef Hiroki Odo, of the Michelin-starred restaurant Odo, will present an exclusive menu inspired by the featured manga and its characters’ stories, blending seasonal Japanese flavors with his signature artistry.
Tickets: $70 (includes access to the live calligraphy performance, along with specially curated food and beverage offerings by Chef Odo)
Exhibition Culinary Offering
Following the reception, select dishes from Chef Odo’s specially curated menu will remain available throughout the exhibition period, giving guests the chance to continue experiencing this unique fusion of art and cuisine.
About Airi Hara
Airi Hara is a Japanese calligrapher and artist based in New York City. Known for her innovative approach to shodō (the art of Japanese calligraphy), she combines traditional brush techniques with modern cultural influences, often collaborating across artistic disciplines. Her work explores the balance between tradition and popular culture, bridging East and West through a fresh visual language.
Hara shares: “Calligraphy and anime both weave words. When these two Japanese cultures embark together on a journey called art, a new adventure begins—bringing smiles and inspiration across the oceans.”
Comments from Chef Hiroki Odo
Owner-chef and curator Hiroki Odo expressed:
“In this solo exhibition, Ms. Hara’s dynamic works will fill the space, transforming THE GALLERY by Odo into something distinct from any of our previous showcases. It will create a truly unique atmosphere, and I believe our guests will thoroughly enjoy the experience. I warmly invite you to visit and take part in this special occasion.”
This event is presented by Tock.
