Beyond these gates lies a story of art, architecture, and transformation. Welcome to the site of the former Hara Museum of Contemporary Art.
For over 40 years, the Hara Museum was a pioneering institution dedicated to contemporary art. It closed its doors here in Shinagawa in January 2021. But its legacy lives on.
Let’s journey back to 1938. Imagine this area as the Hara family’s estate. Rokurō Hara, a prominent businessman, acquired this land. His son-in-law, Kunizō Hara, built a Western-style residence for his wife Taki. This building, designed by Jin Watanabe, would later become the Hara Museum.
Watanabe was a leading architect. He also designed the Tokyo National Museum and Ginza Wako. The Hara residence was a modernist building with Bauhaus and Art Deco elements. Its curved lines and unique design made it special.
During the Pacific War, the Hara family had to evacuate. The GHQ requisitioned the residence after the war. It served as a dormitory for US military officers. Later, it housed the Philippine Embassy and the Embassy of Sri Lanka.
For over a decade, the house remained vacant. There were even plans to demolish it. However, the concrete was too strong. Toshio Hara, Kunizō’s grandson, decided to transform it into a museum. He was inspired by the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in Denmark.
The Hara Museum of Contemporary Art opened in December 1979. Architect Arata Isozaki oversaw the addition of the cafe, office building and hall. The exterior remained largely unchanged.
The Hara Museum became known for its unique exhibitions. Artists created installations that played with the building’s original features. Jean-Pierre Raynaud’s “L’Espace Zero” transformed a greenhouse with white tiles. Tatsuo Miyajima’s “Time Link” occupied the former men’s toilet. Yasumasa Morimura’s “Rondo” took over the visitor’s toilet.
The Hara Museum’s collection included works by renowned artists. Names such as Karel Appel, Alexander Calder and Yayoi Kusama graced its walls. Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Cindy Sherman were also featured. The museum also supported young, up-and-coming artists.
The building itself became a work of art. In 2003, DoCoMoMo recognized its architectural significance. The Hara Museum attracted visitors with its blend of art and home-like atmosphere.
However, the aging building presented challenges. The Great East Japan Earthquake caused extensive damage. The lack of an elevator and universal accessibility became problematic. Regulations also made rebuilding difficult.
In 2020, the Hara Museum held its final exhibition in Shinagawa. “Time Flows: Reflections by 5 Artists” showcased works from its collection. It was a poignant farewell to this beloved space.
The Hara Museum ARC in Gunma Prefecture continues the legacy. Most of the permanent installations have been relocated there. The spirit of the Hara Museum lives on. It has become a new chapter in a new location.
As you stand here, remember the Hara Museum’s impact on the art world. It was a place where art, architecture, and history intertwined. A place that inspired creativity and innovation for generations.