Japan 7

 ### Journal Entry for May 19


**Exploring Kyoto's Cultural Treasures**


Our day began with a visit to the National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto (MoMAK), designed by the renowned architect Fumihiko Maki. The museum's modernist design features clean lines, open spaces, and extensive use of glass and steel, creating a light-filled and airy atmosphere perfect for showcasing its extensive art collection. Walking through the museum was a visually and intellectually stimulating experience. The layout, with its open spaces and natural lighting, enhances the presentation of the artworks, making the visit both educational and enjoyable.


The museum houses an impressive array of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by both Japanese and international artists. Among the notable sections were works by Fujishima Takeji, such as "Portrait of a Calf and Sunlight" (1916) and "Autumn Moon at Tama" (1921), and Koyama Shotaro's "Women of Genroku Period" (1896). The "Take Your Books, Rally in the Streets – Art of Citation and Reference" section included pieces like the "Art & Language Paintings" (1984) and Fukuda Miran's "Old Woman Frying Eggs" (2002). Another significant section, "Crafts in the Meiji Era: Tradition and Change," showcased Yamamoto Otokichi's "Vase with Irises Design" (1911) and Namikawa Yasuyuki's "Plate with Chrysanthemums Design" (1895). We also explored the selected works of Kawai Kanjiro and the Western-style painters admired by Tomioka Tessai. Each exhibit area was thoughtfully curated to provide context and insight into the pieces on display.


After MoMAK, we proceeded to the Kyoto Photography Museum. The current exhibition, titled "Universal/Remote," explores themes of "Constant Growth at a Pan-Global Scale" and "The Remote Individual." This exhibition brings together international artists addressing critical 21st-century issues such as the complexities of the information age, environmental destruction, and power imbalances. Highlights included Maiko Jinushi’s poetic tribute to Roberto Bolaño, Evan Roth’s massive photo installations, and Hito Steyerl’s performance piece critiquing the fashion industry. This exhibit provided a comprehensive look at how contemporary artists use visual media to explore and comment on current global issues.


Our final destination was the Kyoto National Museum, where security was notably tight, and photography was largely prohibited. The museum is currently hosting a special exhibition titled "The Legend of Sesshū: Birth of a Master Painter." This exhibition celebrates the life and works of Sesshū Tōyō, one of Japan's most revered ink painters. The exhibit features a comprehensive collection of Sesshū’s masterpieces, offering an in-depth look at his artistic evolution and mastery. Highlights included "Winter Landscape," "Landscape of the Four Seasons," and "Cranes and Pine Trees." The exhibition not only showcased Sesshū’s exceptional skill but also provided historical context, deepening our appreciation for his work.


In conclusion, our visit to these cultural institutions in Kyoto was profoundly enriching. Each museum offered unique insights into the world of modern and contemporary art, photography, and historical masterpieces. The combination of Fumihiko Maki’s architectural brilliance at MoMAK, the thought-provoking exhibits at the Kyoto Photography Museum, and the revered artworks of Sesshū Tōyō at the Kyoto National Museum made for an unforgettable day of artistic and cultural exploration.

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