This year marks the 130th anniversary of the birth of Eikyu Matsuoka (1881-1938), a painter famous in Japan for his lifelong dedication to reviving and modernizing yamato-e, a traditional style of painting that originated in the late Heian Period (794-1192). One of the most famous yamato-e works is the 12th-century "Genji Monogatari Emaki" ("The Tale of Genji Scroll") .
While Matsuoka researched and studied the historical background and techniques of yamato-e, his motifs and style also reflect an understanding of modern and Western art. His pieces depict highly defined figures painted in delicate brushstrokes of soft color choices.
The Nerima Art Museum is commemorating Matsuoka's artistic achievements with a display of his representative works.; till Nov. 23.
Nerima Art Museum; (03) 3577-1821; 1-36-16 Nukui, Nerima-ku; 3-min walk from Nakamurabashi Station, Seibu-Ikebukuro Line. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ¥500. Closed Mon. www.city.nerima.tokyo.jp/manabu/bunka/museum.
