Akita Prefectural Museum of Modern Art

Overview

The Akita Prefectural Museum of Modern Art is a museum surrounded by abundant nature and culture, located within "Akita Furusato Mura" in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture. Opened in 1994, it showcases works by artists with connections to Akita Prefecture, including Akita Ranga paintings, modern paintings, sculptures, calligraphy, and crafts. Akita Ranga is a unique art form that flourished in Akita during the mid-Edo period, blending Western painting techniques with Japanese aesthetics. The museum boasts a significant collection of works by masters of Akita Ranga, such as Odano Naomune and Satake Yoshimune, allowing visitors to appreciate their meticulous brushwork and expressive techniques that seamlessly combine realism and impressionism. The modern painting collection features works by Akita-born artists such as Fukuda Toyoshiro, Hirafuku Hoan, and Terasaki Hirokatsu. Fukuda Toyoshiro is known for his depictions of Akita landscapes and folk life; masterpieces such as "Mayuyama Yu" and "Snow Country" vividly portray the region's stunning natural beauty and the lives of its people. Hirafuku Hoan, inheriting the Rinpa style, established his own unique artistic style, renowned for works such as "Milk Tiger" that combine realism and ornamentation. Terasaki Hirokatsu specialized in landscapes, famous for his realistic portrayals of majestic mountain scenery in works like "Takayama Seishuu" and "Hakuba-san Hattai". The museum also exhibits various art forms, including calligraphy by Matsui Joryu and crafts by Sekiya Shiro. Matsui Joryu was a calligrapher who significantly influenced modern Japanese calligraphy history, known for his powerful strokes and expressive style. Sekiya Shiro excelled as a metal craftsman, leaving behind delicate and beautiful works such as black bronze gold-inlaid vases. Surrounding the museum are a sculpture plaza and a sculpture path, where sculptures blend seamlessly with nature. Admire unique works by various artists such as Mineta Toshiro's "Memorial Photograph - Wall-", Takada Hiroatsu's "Cathedral", Aristide Maillol's "The Captive Action (Armless)", and Antoine Bourdelle's "Beethoven in the Wind (Wearing a Robe)". The museum also features an observation room offering breathtaking panoramic views of Akita's landscape. On clear days, you can even see Mount Chokai and the Oga Peninsula, truly immersing yourself in Akita's magnificent natural scenery. The Akita Prefectural Museum of Modern Art is a precious place to experience Akita's culture and art. Immerse yourself in the world of art while feeling the rich nature and culture of Akita.