“What could be hidden behind these walls?” You are standing before the \u6c34\u539f\u623f\u6b21\u90ce \u8535\u7f8e\u8853\u9928. It is a private art museum that opened its doors in the autumn of last year.
The \u6c34\u539f\u623f\u6b21\u90ce \u8535\u7f8e\u8853\u9928} only opens twice a year in spring and autumn. It is housed in a renovated kura. A kura is a traditional Japanese storehouse. The space has a unique charm.
\u6c34\u539f\u623f\u6b21\u90ce lived in Uji City. He had a studio in Shinmei. For about 50 years, from the age of 27 until his death, he created art. He traveled extensively in Japan and abroad. The \u6c34\u539f\u623f\u6b21\u90ce \u8535\u7f8e\u8853\u9928 displays his oil paintings from these travels.
The museum was founded by \u6c34\u539f\u623f\u6b21\u90ce’s son and daughter. They wanted to share his work with a wider audience. The location was provided by a tea merchant, Mr. Fujikawa. The Fujikawa family had a long association with the \u6c34\u539f family.
The \u6c34\u539f\u623f\u6b21\u90ce \u8535\u7f8e\u8853\u9928 is located in a building in Shirakawa, Uji City. Pass through the gate and garden. You will find the converted kura on your left.
The two-story building showcases about 20 of \u6c34\u539f\u623f\u6b21\u90ce’s works. These paintings capture the landscapes of Uji and other places that he found beautiful.
Two large works immediately catch the eye. They are about 160 cm tall. These pieces feature stained glass motifs. The colors are rich. The expressions are powerful.
The transformation of the kura into an art museum is remarkable. The walls and pillars of the 300-year-old kura have been preserved. Only the flooring and lighting were updated. Mr. Suemi, \u6c34\u539f\u623f\u6b21\u90ce’s son, mentioned the one-year preparation. It included sorting through items stored in the kura.
During opening periods, Mr. Suemi is usually present at the \u6c34\u539f\u623f\u6b21\u90ce \u8535\u7f8e\u8853\u9928. He transports the paintings himself. He hopes to continue running the museum. He also wants to contribute to the revitalization of the Shirakawa area.
Mr. Suemi sometimes accompanied his father on overseas trips. The spring exhibition features one of his favorite paintings. It was painted during a stay in Mexico. The \u6c34\u539f\u623f\u6b21\u90ce \u8535\u7f8e\u8853\u9928 is a testament to family dedication and artistic legacy.