Austria-born, Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) is known as a philosopher, literary critic and esoteric who became leader of the German Theosophical Society and later founder the Anthroposophical Society. Much of his philosophical thought was influenced by the works of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, while his politics were left-leaning. He is often remembered for his support of writer Emile Zola's intervention in the Dreyfus affair, a political scandal that divided France.
Steiner also saw art as an important form of expression. His connection to the Watari Museum of Contemporary Art is a personal one for the late curator Shizuko Watari, who was moved by his "Blackboard Drawings" at a Venice Biennale 20 years ago. This exhibition, designed to give an overview of Steiner's ideas and life includes the "Blackboard Drawings," architectural designs and even some of his original furniture; till July 13.
The Watari Museum of Contemporary Art (Watari-um); 3-7-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo. Gaienmae Stn. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. (Wed. till 9 p.m.). 1,000. Closed Mon. 03-3402-3001; www.watarium.co.jp