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The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo
3 Kitanomaru Koen Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102 (03)-3272-8600
Last update: 15 Jan 99
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The setting for the Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo is very nice. Across from the grounds of the Imperial Palace. The museum is also just a short walk from the Takabashi Subway station. So, the location and surroundings are a good start but I found the execution of this museum to be flat.
To begin with the building itself is almost nondescript. If not for the banners near the building I could have easily mistaken the site for an office building, and missed it.
The permanent collection focuses on Japanese artists of the modern era, in both western and traditional Asian styles. The regular collection was interesting overall, but nothing was particularly memorable. The galleries were well lit, spacious and open, making viewing easy.
Outside In copyright MOMAT |
I found the entrance fee high at 3000 yen ($18 at the time of my visit including admission for the special exhibit). I found most things in Tokyo were costly so I was not surprised at the cost of admission but it didn't feel any better about it.
To sum up, the facility was bland, the collection was uninspiring but there were some bright spots in the experience for me at this museum. The staff was courteous. There was no language barrier as I had no problem finding staff or patrons who spoke English. Best of all was a traveling exhibition on the work of William Morris.
Rough Cut Through a Hill copyright MOMAT |
I had not heard of Morris up to this time and was not particularly interested in interior design as a medium but viewing this exhibit changed my conception of what could be done with fabrics and furniture. I was amazed at this style and creativity in the areas of wallpaper and textiles. The exhibit was very well put together showing the progression of certain pieces from conception to finished product, with amazing results. The result of viewing this showed me that expression can be shown anywhere even in something as seemingly simple as wallpaper.
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As I've become more familiar with Morris his creativity was not limited to interior design. his areas of interest were very diverse and fascinating. I encourage anyone to take some time to read up on William Morris and his associates. It is a very interesting story.
The choice of this show was a big plus for the MOMA Tokyo and I would come back to this facility if I had the chance but I'm betting there are better presented facilities in Tokyo if you look for them.
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