The National Museum of Modern Art in Tokyo, also known as MOMAT, is one of Japan’s largest art museums. It is dedicated to collecting and exhibiting modern Japanese art, as well as Western-style painting, drawings, prints, and sculpture.
The museum’s collection includes masterpieces by modern and contemporary Japanese artists, as well as Important Cultural Properties.
The museum was established in 1952 as Japan’s first national art museum devoted to modern art and since then, it has become a major cultural institution in Tokyo, attracting visitors from all over the world. The museum is in central Tokyo, near the Imperial Palace and other major attractions.
Visitors to the National Museum of Modern Art can enjoy a wide range of exhibits and events, including special exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and performances. The museum also has an extensive art library, which is open to the public.
Collections
The Museum has an impressive collection of modern Japanese art, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and photographs. The collection spans from the Meiji period to the present day, showcasing the evolution of Japanese art over time.
One of the highlights of the museum’s collection is the works of the Gutai group, a post-war avant-garde art collective that was active from the 1950s to the 1970s. The museum has a dedicated gallery space for Gutai art, displaying a range of works that demonstrate the group’s experimental and innovative approach to art-making.
The museum also has a significant collection of Japanese ceramics, including pieces from the Mingei folk art movement and contemporary ceramic artists. The museum’s collection of ceramics showcases the diversity of Japanese pottery, from traditional styles to contemporary interpretations.
In addition to Japanese art, the museum has a collection of international modern and contemporary art, including works by masters such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Jackson Pollock.
The exhibits are organized into departments, including Painting and Sculpture, Prints and Drawings, Photography, Craft, and Design. Each department has a dedicated gallery space, allowing visitors to explore the different aspects of modern art in Japan.
Exhibitions
MOMAT is a renowned art gallery that specializes in contemporary Japanese art from the Meiji Period (1868-1912) onward. The museum offers exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing both permanent and temporary collections.
One of the most anticipated exhibitions taking place at the museum in 2023 is the “An Exhibition Celebrating the 70th Anniversary of The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo” which runs from March 17 to May 14, 2023. This exhibition features works from the museum’s collection, including paintings, sculptures, and prints from artists.
Another exhibition that you can explore is “Secrets of Restoration Primarily from the Museum Collection” which also runs from March 17 to May 14, 2023. This exhibition showcases the restoration process of artworks from the museum’s collection and gives you an insight into the techniques used to preserve these precious pieces of art.
Facilities
The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo offers a range of facilities to enhance your museum experience. Here’s a few of the key features:
Exhibition Spaces
The museum has exhibition spaces that showcase a wide variety of modern and contemporary Japanese art. The galleries are spacious and well-lit, providing visitors with an optimal viewing experience. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase the works of both Japanese and international artists.
Library
There’s an extensive library that houses a vast collection of books, journals, and other materials related to modern and contemporary art. You can access the library for research purposes or to simply explore its impressive collection.
Café
The museum has a café where you can relax and enjoy a range of refreshments, including coffee, tea, and light snacks. The café offers a pleasant atmosphere and is an ideal spot to take a break during your visit.
Museum Shop
The museum shop offers a range of unique gifts, souvenirs, and books related to modern and contemporary Japanese art. You can browse through the shop and purchase items that commemorate their visit to the museum.
Audio Guides
The museum offers audio guides in languages, including English, French, and Chinese. The audio guides provide visitors with an in-depth understanding of the museum’s collection and exhibitions.
Accessibility
The museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities. It has wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. The museum also gives you assistance to visitors with disabilities upon request.
Visiting Information
The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo is in Chiyoda-ku, near the Imperial Palace. It is easy to get to. You can take the subway to Takebashi Station on the Tozai Line or Kudanshita Station on the Hanzomon, Tozai, and Shinjuku Lines.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm. It is closed on Mondays, except when it falls on a national holiday, in which case the museum will open on Monday and close on Tuesday instead. Visitors should note that the museum may also close during special events or for maintenance, so check the museum’s website for the latest information before planning a visit.
The regular collection of the museum is admission-free on the first Sunday of the month. However, special exhibitions may require an admission fee. You can explore the museum’s collection of modern and contemporary Japanese art, as well as Important Cultural Properties. Art lovers will also enjoy the museum’s art library.
The museum offers audio guides in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean, to enhance visitors’ experience. You can also enjoy workshops and events, such as lectures, concerts, and film screenings, organized by the museum throughout the year.
For visitors with disabilities, the museum offers wheelchair rental and accessible restrooms. You can also request sign language interpretation or audio description services in advance. The museum welcomes all visitors and strives to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Website: https://www.momat.go.jp/en
History
The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, was established in 1952 as Japan’s first national art museum, governed by the Ministry of Education. The building was designed by Kunio Maekawa, a prominent Japanese architect of the time.
The museum has undergone expansions over the years, with neighboring properties purchased to accommodate the growing collection. In 1969, a new wing was added to house the Crafts Gallery, which showcases traditional Japanese crafts such as ceramics, lacquerware, and textiles. In 2001, the museum underwent a major renovation, adding a new entrance and exhibition space, as well as improving accessibility and security measures.
Today, the museum’s collection includes over 13,000 works of art, ranging from traditional Japanese-style paintings and calligraphy to modern and contemporary art. The collection also includes works designated as Important Cultural Properties, which are recognized by the Japanese government for their historical and cultural significance.
