April 25-June 28
Ayao Yamana (1897-1980), a top illustrator and designer for the cosmetics manufacturer Shiseido Co., was strongly influenced by French Art Deco. His resulting modern illustrations became popular with women during the 1920s and are still admired today.
He also designed a number of familiar logos, including the illustration for Shiseido Co.'s culture magazine Hanatsubaki, the Kinokuniya supermarket font and the grape motif of Shinchosha Publishing Co.
In an exhibition that follows the history of Yamana's work and design aesthetic, approximately 270 exhibits are being shown, including original paintings created for Shiseido posters and packaging, and cover pages of Hanatsubaki.
Gunma Museum of Art, Tatebayashi; 2003 Hinata-cho, Tatebayashi, Gunma. Tatara Stn. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. ¥820. Closed Mon. 0276-72-8188; www.gmat.pref.gunma.jp
