We recently visited an exhibition of a different nature, one that celebrates the 30th Anniversary of Gundam.

You may know Gundam as a toy or model kit that your child or sibling enjoys, but did you know that this franchise has been around for 30 years? Gundam debuted in Japan in 1979, and appeared in Singapore in the 80s. Do check out this post which mentions Gundam’s early presence in Singapore, as well as the official site for an introduction to Gundam.

This exhibition celebrates three decades of Gundam and features some interesting walkthroughs of the evolution of these robots, along with other displays that serve as a visual archive of mecha in the Gundam universe.

Here are the sections in the exhibition that greatly interested us.

Evolution of Gunpla

Gunpla is shorthand for Gundam plastic model kits. In fan circles, RX-78 is affectionately known as the granddaddy of all Gundam. This display shows that constant refreshing of its aesthetics and playability has kept this iconic mecha internally young.

1/48 scale RX-78 – The largest scale of Gundam models

Real Grade 1/144 scale – The most advanced 1/144 RX-78 to date.

Human sized Statue of RX-78

Bandai Hobby Centre
Bandai is the manufacturer of Gundam model kits, and this section provides insights on the development process model kits, from how they are conceptualised at Bandai Hobby Centre to the point of mass production.

A panel describing the production process.

Uniforms that the staff at the Bandai Hobby Centre use.

Ranks assigned to the staff.

A sample of a mould used to produce a model kit.

Finally a prototype next to the finished model kit.

Perfect Grade Gallery
As we have a strong affinity for toys coming in at a height of 30cm or more, we were very fascinated by this section. Perfect Grade Gundam model kits represent the zenith of Bandai’s engineering, with extensive articulation, lights and play features. Here, all 1/60 scale Gundam that Bandai has ever produced is featured, along with customised work from expert hobbyists.

Here are our favourite models in this section.

PG 1/60 Zeta Gundam

PG 1/60 RX-178 Titans Version

PG 1/60 Strike Gundam

Other sections of the exhibition include:

Unicorn Gundam

BB Senshi Sangokuden

Master Grade

Merchandise Area

Giant Capsule Toy Machine

Life-Sized RX-78 Stage backdrop

Initially, we were apprehensive about this exhibition turning out to be nothing more than a merchandising event, where product sales take priority over informative content, but the Gundam Fiesta 2010 strikes a nice balance between both, and delivers a fun and engaging experience.

Gundam Fiesta 2010 runs from 1 – 13 September.