The Taisho Era, sandwiched between the Meiji and Showa, was short, lasting only 15 years. However, in those years, the budding ethos to respect the individual's subjectivity and romanticism became a trend along with Taisho democracy. A unique culture and artistic expression that was influenced by Western Modernism and Art Deco also blossomed.
The romantic works of the pre-war Taisho to Showa periods in this exhibition were chosen from the highly acclaimed Honolulu Academy of Art's Japanese Art Collection by the Academy's curators. The exhibition is structured around four themes: "Paintings and Prints", "Decorative Arts", "Kimono", "Books of Popular Songs in the Taisho Era." The works on display include Nihonga (Japanese-style paintings) that portray the culture of the time such as "Moga" (short for Modern Girl), as well as kimonos and crafts with unique, innovative patterns that were influenced by Art Deco. This exhibition has been favorably reviewed since its start in Honolulu in 2002 throughout its tour of the United States, and has now made it to Japan. 80 works are on display.
•Special Commemorative Lectures
-Title: "The Honolulu Academy of Arts and the Japanese Art Department" (with interpreter)
Date & Time: April 14th, 14:00-15:30
Lecturer: Stephen L. Little (Director of the Honolulu Academy of Arts)
-Title: "Taisho Era Nihonga and Prints"
Date & Time: April 28th, 14:00-15:30
Lecturer: Tadashi Kobayashi (Gakushuin University Professor, Director of Chiba City Museum of Art)
※Location for both lecturers is the Main Hall in the New Building. Doors open at 13:30.
※Free. Seating is first come first serve, no reservations necessary.
•Floor Lecture [Free exhibition explanation by curators for museum guests]
Date & Time: May 10th & 31st, 14:00~
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