Unleash Your Inner Edo: Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s Eccentric Art Comes Alive in Osaka!
(December 21, 2024 – February 24, 2025 at The Nakanoshima Museum of Art, Osaka)
Prepare to be captivated by the vibrant world of Utagawa Kuniyoshi! After 13 years, Osaka welcomes back this iconic ukiyo-e artist with a comprehensive solo exhibition showcasing approximately 400 works. This isn’t just another exhibition; it’s a deep dive into Kuniyoshi’s genius, featuring not only his renowned woodblock prints of warriors, caricatures, and a wide array of subjects, but also rare and precious hand-painted pieces.
From Samurai Swagger to Whiskered Wonders: Explore Kuniyoshi’s Diverse World
Epic Heroes and Dramatic Battles:
Kuniyoshi, a master of the late Edo period, revolutionized the ukiyo-e genre. In his early 30s, his depictions of "Water Margin" heroes catapulted warrior pictures to the forefront of popular art, rivaling the then-dominant themes of beautiful women and actors. Experience his dynamic compositions, often spanning large, three-panel screens, capturing the most thrilling moments of these legendary tales. From his early breakthrough, the "Tsuzoku Suikoden Goketsu Hyakuhachinin no Hitori (One Person)" series, to his later masterpiece, the six-panel "Battle of Shijo Nawate" (displayed during the first exhibition period only), this exhibition gathers some of Kuniyoshi’s most iconic warrior prints.
The Purrfect Companion: Kuniyoshi’s Feline Fascination:
A devoted cat lover, Kuniyoshi often incorporated his furry companions into his art. These weren’t just passive figures; Kuniyoshi’s cats took on human roles, mimicking popular actors or even becoming patrons of brothels, adding a touch of whimsy to his caricatures, actor portraits, and even pictures of beautiful women. Don’t miss the newly discovered work, "Ryuko Neko no Henka" (displayed throughout the entire exhibition period), a testament to Kuniyoshi’s unique observation and affection for his feline muses.
Delve Deeper: Special Events
Expand your understanding of Kuniyoshi’s artistry with these free lectures:
- January 11, 2025 (Saturday): "The Individuality and Charm of Kuniyoshi" with Hidetake Asano (Director of Abeno Harukas Art Museum and Yamato Bunkakan).
- January 26, 2025 (Sunday): "The Whimsical Ideas of Hokusai, Hiroshige, and Kuniyoshi" with Toshinobu Yasumura (Director of Seikado Bunko Art Museum).
Both lectures start at 2:00 PM (doors open at 1:30 PM) in the Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art’s 1st Floor Hall. Seating is limited to 150 people on a first-come, first-served basis (no prior application needed). Don’t forget your exhibition ticket (used stubs are acceptable).
Plan Your Visit
- Exhibition Dates: December 21, 2024 – February 24, 2025
- Closed: Mondays (except January 13 and February 24), December 31, January 1, and January 14. Note: Exhibits will be rotated during the exhibition period.
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
- Location: Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art, 4th Floor Exhibition Room (4-3-1 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka City)
- Admission:
- General: ¥1,800 (¥1,600 in advance)
- University/High School Students: ¥1,500 (¥1,300 in advance)
- Elementary/Junior High School Students: ¥500 (¥300 in advance)
- Advance tickets and group rates (20+ people) are available until 11:59 PM on December 20.
- Contact: 06-4301-7285 (Osaka City General Call Center, 24/7, 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
- Website: https://kuniyoshi2024.jp
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Who was Utagawa Kuniyoshi?
Utagawa Kuniyoshi was a renowned Japanese ukiyo-e artist, active during the late Edo period. Born in 1797 in Edo (modern-day Tokyo), he is celebrated for his dynamic and imaginative woodblock prints that encompass a wide range of themes, including historical tales, kabuki actors, landscapes, and mythical creatures. Kuniyoshi was a master of storytelling through art, and his work often showcased vivid color, intricate detail, and a unique ability to capture movement and emotion. He was part of the Utagawa school, one of the most influential schools of ukiyo-e, and is considered one of its most versatile and innovative members. Kuniyoshi’s legacy continues to influence artists worldwide, and his prints are treasured both for their technical skill and their insight into Japan’s cultural history during a transformative era.
