Manga artist Takehiko Inoue and VIZ Media editor Andy Nakatani make a few closing remarks at the reception at Books Kinokuniya bookstore.

Aided by VIZ Media editor and translator Andy Nakatani, Takehiko Inoue spoke briefly to the assembled press and guests about his mural.

"Why did I do this? 1) It's a lot of fun and 2) I really want my manga to be a success in America," said Inoue. "I'd like to continue to have a one to one relationship with my readers through my manga and I ask for your support."