A fascinating exhibition that explores the closely-linked relationship between Japanese and French art will be on display at Louvre Abu Dhabi this Autumn.
Japanese Connections: The Birth of Modern Décor, contains paintings, prints and screens that demonstrate the cultural dialogues that took place between the East and West during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Open from September 6, the exhibition also looks at how woodblock painting and ukiyo-e – the iconic and very colourful genre of Japanese painting – still influences, and is visible in, European modern art to this day.
Depicting beautiful landscapes featuring scenes of Mount Fuji, waterfalls and cherry blossom, as well as stunning representations of everyday life and relationships, there will be 41 pieces of art and 15 documents on display.
Manuel Rabaté, director of Louvre Abu Dhabi said: “[Our] ethos celebrates cultural connection, dialogue and exchange, and this approach is intrinsic to our curation throughout the permanent galleries and international exhibitions.
“Japanese Connections will shine a light on one significant moment of exchange and inspiration; these moments open our eyes to the interconnected history of human societies.”
The artists on display include Paul Sérusier, Pierre Bonnard, Maurice Denis, Ker-Xavier Roussel, Édouard Vuillard, Marguerite Sérusier and Odilon Redon.
There will also be pieces from Japanese ukiyo-e masters Katsushika Hokusai, Hara Zaimei, Utagawa Hiroshige, Kano Tanshin and Toshusai Sharaku.
Curated by Isabelle Cahn, general curator at Musée d’Orsay, the exhibition is part of a wider programme that celebrates the arts and culture of Japan.
The Big in Japan festival will take place from October 26 to 27 at the world-renowened Saadiyat Island venue.
Featuring DJs, spoken word poetry, screenings of Studio Ghibli anime films and Japanese cooking classes, the event is a must for anyone interested in this mesmerising country.
Running alongside the exhibition will be the Manga Lab, a creative space where young adults can enjoy exploring the many brilliant elements of contemporary Japanese youth culture.
Containing retro arcade games, a graffiti and expression wall, chill-out reading area, plus a series of masterclasses and workshops about Manga and graphic art, there’s heaps to keep every generation thoroughly entertained.
Dhs63. Sep 6-Nov 14. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, www.louvreabudhabi.ae.
