The Hara Museum ARC in Gunma Prefecture will host the exhibition ‘A Dive Into Art from the Center of the Heart,’ featuring works by renowned contemporary artists including Kohei Nawa, Tabaimo, and more. The exhibition will run from September 14, 2024, to January 13, 2025.
Jean-Michel Othoniel, Kokoro, 2009
This exhibition is the second part of a year-long project that explores ideas surrounding the word ‘center.’ The first part, ‘A Shout Out for Art from the Center of Japan’ runs from March 16 to September 8, 2024. It focuses on broadcasting art from ‘the center of Japan,’ Shibukawa City in Gunma Prefecture, to the rest of the world. In contrast, the second part, ‘A Dive Into Art from the Center of the Heart’ encourages viewers to experience art by drawing the experience inward to their hearts. While contemporary art is sometimes seen as difficult to understand, this exhibition reminds us that true appreciation comes not necessarily from trying to grasp the correct interpretation, but from savoring what touches our senses and reflecting on our own emotions and personal taste.
Main Exhibited Works
Gallery A, themed ‘From a Distance,’ will feature works by Max Stricher, Kae Masuda, Izumi Kato, Tadanori Yokoo, Toeko Tatsuno, Katsuro Yoshida, Kumi Sugai, and others.
Kae Masuda, Faraway Songs – Voices Nearby, 2012 oil on canvas 194 x 259 cm ©Kae Masuda
Gallery B, themed ‘With Fresh Eyes,’ will showcase works by Richard Serra, Tomoko Yoneda, Jasper Johns, Kohei Nawa, Lai Chi Man, and others. This exhibition invites you to leave your preconceptions behind and to trust your senses, offering an experience best encountered personally.
Kohei Nawa, PixCell-Bambi#2, 2006 mixed media 31.5 x 51.0 x 20.0 cm
Gallery C, themed ‘Diving into the Senses,’ will feature works by pop art masters such as Andy Warhol, David Hockney, Miran Fukuda, Yayoi Kusama, Roy Lichtenstein, and others. Visitors will surely be immersed in the energy and vibrant colors of the art.
Miran Fukuda, Still Life with Cardoon and Francolin, 1992 acrylic on canvas, string, paper, vinyl sheet 90 x 110 cm ©Miran Fukuda
In the special exhibition room Kankai Pavilion, inspired by traditional Shoin architecture, the theme is ‘Immersion.’ This space will feature timeless works by artists like Jasper Johns, Tabaimo, Kano Tanyu, Maruyama Okyo, and others, all set against a backdrop of Japanese aesthetics.
Tabaimo, Midnight Sea, 2006 video installation ©Tabaimo photo: Shinya Kigure
Surrounded by nature, the Hara Museum ARC features architecture by Arata Isozaki, winner of the 2019 Pritzker Prize. The expansive grounds also feature artworks by Andy Warhol and Yayoi Kusama, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and appreciating the outdoor installations after exploring the gallery spaces. With the exhibition running from fall to winter, it’s the perfect time to combine your visit with autumn leaf-watching or a relaxing hot spring getaway.
Hara Museum ARC photo by Shinya Kigure
A Dive Into Art from the Center of the Heart
Exhibition Dates: September 14, 2024 (Sat) – January 13, 2025 (Mon, National Holiday)
Please note that the exhibit at Kankai Pavilion will change during the exhibition period.
Venue: Hara Museum ARC
Opening Hours: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm (Last admission at 4:00 pm)
Closed: Thursdays, January 1, January 2 (Closed)
Admission Fees:
・General: ¥1,800
・Seniors (70 and over): ¥1,500
・High School Students: ¥1,000
・Elementary and Junior High School Students: ¥800
Advance Online Tickets (Date-specific): https://e-tix.jp/haramuseum_arc/
Hara Museum ARC Membership holders receive free admission. Elementary and junior high school students from Gunma Prefecture receive free admission on Saturdays during the school term.
Website: https://www.haramuseum.or.jp/en/arc/
Instagram: @haramuseumarc
