'Beauty in the Yumeji Style'

Sept. 26-Dec. 16

The bijinga (portraits of beautiful women) by Takehisa Yumeji (1884-1934) portrayed women in such a distinctive manner that it became known as “Yumeji beauty style.” Yumeji developed this poetic and minimalist yet romantic style after meeting his wife Tamaki, but it has also been attributed to the strong relationships he had with his mother and older sister. His works show a sympathy toward women in general, who at the time were socially and politically oppressed.

Through a showcase of masterpieces, including “A Nude Portrait of a West Coast Woman,” a rare oil painting for the predominantly print artist, and a large folding screen, Yumeji’s vision of the ideal woman — wide eyes, soft body lines and larger hands and feet — is emphasized in this exhibition.

Yumeji Art Museum; 2-1-32 Hama, Naka-ku, Okayama. Okayama Stn. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. ¥800. Closed Mon. 086-271-1000; www.yumeji-art-museum.com

• Twitter
• Facebook
• LinkedIn

LATEST ART STORIES

'Information or Inspiration': The paths of perception

A review of "Information or Inspiration? Japanese Aesthetics to Enjoy With Left Side and Right Side of the Brain" at the Suntory Museum of Art almost needs a spoiler alert. The exhibition includes ...

'Retrospective of Munakata Shiko: Woodcut Prints'

May 25-July 7 Born in Aomori, Shiko Munakata (1903-1975) is internationally celebrated as a 20th-century master of Japanese woodcut prints, having won several awards, including first prize at th...

'Abstraction: Aspects of Contemporary Art'

May 25-Aug. 4 Abstract art, which first flourished in early 20th-century Europe and America as a widely practiced avant-garde style, is once again gaining popularity in Western art. Though fo...