This retrospective of work by Yokoyama Taikan (1868–1958) marks the 150th anniversary of the artist's birth and the 60th anniversary of his death.
After studying at the Tokyo School Fine Arts, Yokoyama left the school along with his teacher, Okakura Tenshin, to establish the Japan Art Institute. Yokoyama aimed to create a new form of painting that would befit the new age. During this period, which saw an influx of various things from the West, Yokoyama attempted to carry on and occasionally modify traditional Japanese painting techniques. He was also acclaimed for breaking away from conventional notions of subject matter. By gradually developing his approach, Yokoyama produced countless masterpieces imbued with his free-wheeling style and profound spirituality.
Along with important Yokoyama works such as Metempsychosis (Important Cultural Property), Cherry Blossoms at Night, and Autumn Leaves, this exhibition presents never-before-shown works as well as studies and other materials.