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Imamura Shiko: A Revolutionary Innovator of Nihonga

Starts 4/25

Artists

Shiko Imamura

The painter Imamura Shiko (1880–1916) was active from the late Meiji era (1868–1912) through the early Taisho era (1912–1926). This is the first large-scale retrospective of his work in 42 years, and the first ever to be held at a public art museum. Shiko studied traditional Yamato-e, a Japanese painting style established during the Heian era (794–1185) and practiced continuously since, and at a young age demonstrated exceptional skill in history painting. He later set his sights on innovation in Nihonga (modern Japanese-style painting). Drawing inspiration from 17th-century Rimpa painters, particularly Tawaraya Sotatsu’s free and fluid style, he also incorporated elements from Nanga (a style of Japanese landscape painting established in the mid-18th century and influenced by works from China’s Jiangnan region) and Western Impressionism, developing a distinctive approach to landscape painting. His deliberate and determined brushwork, bold compositions, and vivid colors are exemplified in works such as “Scenes from the Tropics” and “Eight Views of Omi Province” (National Important Cultural Properties). This exhibition follows Imamura Shiko’s dynamic creative path over the course of his brief 35 years, presenting approximately 180 works, many on public display for the first time. The exhibition consists of four sections, whose titles are taken from Shiko’s own words.

Schedule

Apr 25 (Sat) 2026-Jun 28 (Sun) 2026