Dragon Ball Celebrates 40 Years with Rare Original Artwork Reveal

Celebrating 40 Years of Dragon Ball

Forty years ago, Akira Toriyama's iconic manga series, Dragon Ball, made its debut in Weekly Shonen Jump. This launch marked the beginning of what would become one of the most influential series in the world of manga and anime. In honor of this remarkable milestone, a special reveal has delighted fans around the globe: the rare draft of the manga’s debut page has been re-released for a limited time. This revelation provides a glimpse into Toriyama's creative process and the original artwork behind a legendary series.

Original Watercolor Artwork

The first chapter of Dragon Ball introduces us to a young Son Goku, depicted carrying a large piece of firewood through a lush forest. This scene, marked by a sense of lighthearted adventure, is accompanied by a pair of monkeys who greet Goku as he passes by. This early page set the tone for the blend of action and comedy that would define Dragon Ball. Notably, the draft of this page features a stunning watercolor background, differing from the final publication version, offering fans a glimpse into Toriyama’s artistic vision.

Dragon Ball’s Inspirations and Evolution

Dragon Ball draws inspiration from the ancient Chinese classic, Journey to the West, a story about the adventures of a magical monkey named Sun Wukong. Like Wukong, Goku is a rambunctious young character with superhuman strength and a monkey's tail. While Wukong’s story is a spiritual journey, Goku's tale focuses on his quest to become a powerful martial artist. This quest leads him to discover the Dragon Balls, seven mystical orbs with the power to grant any wish.

Throughout their adventures, Goku and his companion Bulma encounter numerous allies, including characters like Oolong and Yamcha, adding depth and humor to the story. While Dragon Ball evolved to emphasize action in its later installments, it never lost its comedic roots, staying true to Toriyama’s original blend of humor and excitement.

Anniversary Events and Collaborations

The 40th-anniversary celebration is not just a moment, but a series of commemorating events that started in 2021 with the launch of the Dragon Ball Super Gallery in Saikyo Jump. This initiative involved renowned manga artists reimagining iconic Dragon Ball volume covers. Participants such as Masashi Kishimoto (Naruto), Tatsuki Fujimoto (Chainsaw Man), and Koyoharu Gotouge (Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba) have contributed unique interpretations, celebrating the series’ influence on the manga community.

The anniversary celebrations extended to collaborations with global brands, resulting in exclusive merchandise. For example, Uniqlo released a special Dragon Ball collection, allowing fans to celebrate the series through fashion, bringing Dragon Ball into the mainstream of international pop culture.

Accessibility of Dragon Ball Series

For those interested in revisiting or discovering the series, the Dragon Ball manga is available in English through VIZ Media. Furthermore, the several anime adaptations, including Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball GT, and Dragon Ball Super, are accessible through streaming platforms like Hulu and Crunchyroll. The new anniversary tribute series, Dragon Ball Daima, is available on both Netflix, Hulu, and Crunchyroll, making it easier for fans new and old to connect with Goku’s adventures.

Final Thoughts

The 40th anniversary of Dragon Ball is a testimony to its enduring impact and the way it has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. The rare unveiling of Akira Toriyama’s original artwork not only celebrates the past but also showcases the timeless appeal of a story that seamlessly blends comedy, fantasy, and action. As the series continues to inspire new generations, this milestone serves as a reminder of the innovative spirit that has always been at the heart of Dragon Ball.