Celebrating 100 Years: The Place We See - Ueno, Omuta, and Buenos Aires at Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

The Centennial Exhibition at Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum has opened its doors to a remarkable exhibition titled "Celebrating 100 Years: The Place We See - Ueno, Omuta, and Buenos Aires," which began on July 23 and will continue until October 7, 2026. On the eve of the opening, a press preview took place where curator Yo Ouchi and AHA! member Atsushi Matsumoto presented the exhibition's highlights and insights.

Established in 1926, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, originally known as the Tokyo Prefectural Museum, was the first public art museum in Japan, located in the scenic Ueno Park. This exhibition honors the museum's 100-year journey through the artistic endeavors carried out in Ueno, Omuta, and Buenos Aires, exploring the shared narratives and landscapes that connect these three locations.

Three Parts to the Exhibition

The exhibition is divided into three distinct segments:

1. Ueno - The 100 Years of Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

In the first part, visitors will take a nostalgic journey through the museum's history in Ueno, from its inception to the present day. Numerous exhibitions held over the decades will be showcased alongside the surrounding landscapes, illustrating how Ueno has remained a cultural nexus throughout the modern era.

2. Omuta - Shigeo Egami’s 100 Years

The second part focuses on Shigeo Egami, an artist who dedicated his life to capturing the landscapes of the coal-mining town of Omuta and its surroundings. Born in 1912, Egami's impressive oeuvre includes pencil sketches, watercolors, and experimental abstract works, all made from familiar materials. This exhibition features nearly 400 pieces, providing a rare and comprehensive look at his artistic journey.

3. Buenos Aires - A Century Surrounding "The Garden of Zinnias"

The final section of the exhibition centers around the painting "The Garden of Zinnias," which became the museum's first acquisition in 1926. This segment tells the story of a Japanese immigrant who moved to Buenos Aires and their family's connection to this artwork. A research project led by AHA! delves into the life of the painting's elusive creator, Tetsutaro Fujioka, invoking themes of migration, memory, and identity.

Reflecting on a Century of Creativity

As a locale that has been a centerpiece for exhibitions and various cultural activities, Ueno has played a significant role in Japan's modern art history. This exhibition invites viewers to explore the parallel histories of these three disparate places, transcending traditional narratives of center versus periphery. It calls into question what role art institutions, like the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, can play in nurturing a better life for the community in the next century.

Must-See Highlights

1. Ueno's Centenary in Retrospect - This portion reflects on Ueno’s 100 years through various artefacts, including paintings, photographs, and archived materials that together recount the evolution of the art museum from its inception to the dynamic landscape of post-war Japan.

2. First-Time Showcase of Egami's Work in Tokyo - Featuring the diverse artistry of Shigeo Egami, this exhibition is the first opportunity for Tokyo audiences to view his woodblock prints, abstract pieces, and dyed paperworks, all acclaimed for their unique portrayal of familiar surroundings.

3. Research Project Illuminating Historical Art - AHA! is working on a project inspired by the painting "The Garden of Zinnias," conducting research into Tetsutaro Fujioka’s life, while simultaneously preparing a calendar that will feature a collection of flower photographs submitted by the public, showcasing community engagement and historical reflection.

Related Events and Programs

To enrich the exhibition experience, the museum has planned a series of talks and events:

- Talking about Shigeo Egami on August 29th, featuring discussions about Egami’s impact, featuring guests who are closely linked to his legacy.
- Tracing Unnoticed Footsteps on September 5th, where cultural workers will share stories about discoveries made in local history.
- Spotlight on Women Artists Post-War on September 26th, focusing on the contributions of female artists during and after the war.

Admission Information

The exhibition is open daily, except for Mondays, with special hours on certain holidays. General admission is set at 1,200 yen, with discounts available for seniors and students. Various programs and community days have also been planned to ensure inclusivity.

For more details, visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum website. This exhibition not only marks a pivotal moment in the history of Japanese art but also poses critical questions about the future of art institutions in fostering cultural growth within the community.