#Japan #Ota #Japanese art #Ryuko Kawabata #Gyokudo Kawai

Special Exhibition: Celebrating 140 Years of Ryuko Kawabata

The Ryushi Memorial Museum in Ota City is set to hold a remarkable exhibition titled "Kawai Gyokudo and Ryuko Kawabata" from October 11 to November 9, 2025, commemorating the 140th anniversary of the birth of renowned Japanese painter Ryuko Kawabata (1885-1966). This exhibition not only highlights Kawabata’s artistic journey but also delves into his enriching relationship with fellow artist Kawai Gyokudo (1873-1957).

As part of the Japanese painting scene, both artists have made significant contributions but possess distinct styles. While Gyokudo is celebrated for depicting Japan’s traditional landscapes and everyday life, Kawabata is recognized for his exploration of innovative expressions in large-scale paintings. The exhibition aims to shed light on the contrasting yet complementary nature of their artistic philosophies.

The connection between Kawabata and Gyokudo blossomed post-World War II when they discovered their mutual appreciation for haiku poetry during a radio talk show. This encounter led Kawabata to visit Gyokudo in Okutama, deepening their friendship. Their strong bond is exemplified by Kawabata serving as the chief mourner at Gyokudo's funeral, highlighting the depth of their relationship.

In this special exhibition, which follows the previous showcase focusing on Taikan Yokoyama and Kawabata's artistic interactions, visitors will have the opportunity to appreciate both artists’ works alongside those from the Gyokudo Museum. It will feature various pieces that exhibit their mutual influences and the artistic developments they championed throughout their careers.

Highlights of the Exhibition

The exhibition will trace Gyokudo’s artistic journey from the Meiji era through to his final years. Several notable works will be displayed:

• - "Remaining Snow on Takamine" (circa 1907, Palamita Museum)
• - "Cranes in Inada" (1928, Kitano Museum)
• - "Colorful Rain" (1940, National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo)
• - "Rough Sea" (1944, Yamamoto Museum)
• - "After the Rain" (1957, Gyokudo Museum)

Additionally, the exhibition will showcase the iconic "Cormorant Fishing" series created by Gyokudo, starting from its first depiction at the 1895 National Industrial Exhibition. Kawabata, who created "Cormorant at Sea" in 1963, offers a great contrast that will be featured in the exhibit alongside Gyokudo’s interpretations.

The Triumvirate of Masters

Following his initial encounter with Gyokudo, Kawabata's relationships with other Japanese art masters flourished. Notably, he rekindled his long-distance friendship with Taikan Yokoyama, culminating in the trio - Kawabata, Yokoyama, and Gyokudo - holding joint exhibitions from 1952 until Gyokudo's death in 1957. This exhibition will highlight key works from the second and third Shōchikubai exhibitions:

• - Second Shōchikubai Exhibition (1956) featuring three masterpieces: "Night Rain at Karasaki" by Kawabata, "One Branch of Bamboo" by Yokoyama, and "Wild Plum" by Gyokudo.
• - Third Shōchikubai Exhibition (1957) showcasing: "Young Pine" from Gyokudo, "Old Tales" by Kawabata, and "Red Plum" from Yokoyama.

Exhibition Details

• - Duration: October 11 – November 9, 2025
• - Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)
• - Closed: Mondays (open on public holidays with a following day off)
• - Admission: General 800 JPY, Middle school students and under: 400 JPY (Free for seniors 65+, preschool children, and one accompanying carer)
• - Host: Ota City Cultural Promotion Foundation
• - Venue: Ryushi Memorial Museum, 4-2-1 Chuo, Ota City, Tokyo (Tel: 03-3772-0680)
• - More Info: Ota Culture

Join us for this exceptional opportunity to appreciate the intersections of artistry between Ryuko Kawabata and Gyokudo Kawai, grounded in a century of Japanese heritage and expression.