Consider the University Art Museum a portal. This portal transports you through time and artistry. Here at the University Art Museum, Tokyo University of the Arts, we are surrounded by a collection that started long before the museum even existed.
Back in 1887, the seeds of this museum were sown. They predated the Tokyo Fine Arts School. Those early art materials were precious. They were called Bunko or library collections and were carefully kept at the University Library.
Fast forward to 1949. The Tokyo Fine Arts School joined forces with the Tokyo Music School. Together they formed the Tokyo University of the Arts. Even with this big change, the art collection remained under the library’s care. It was always key for art education and research.
In 1970, things shifted. The Art Materials Section split off from the library. The Art Materials Archives were born. Music-related items found a home here too. The staff researched, preserved and shared these treasures. Both the Faculty of Fine Arts and the Faculty of Music worked together.
As time passed, the repository filled up quickly. More artworks meant less space. The university knew it needed better facilities. They dreamed of a larger exhibition area. Finally, in 1996, construction began on a new Fine Arts Museum building. In 1998, the Art Materials Archives evolved. It became The University Art Museum. Its mission expanded.
Today, The University Art Museum creates value. It collects and studies art and related materials. It preserves them carefully for future generations. The museum shares its research through various events. These activities are central to what the museum does.
The University Art Museum strives to be unique. It acts as an experimental art museum. Being part of an arts university is special. Production, education and research all come together here.
Our museum boasts around 30000 works. Many pieces come from past students and teachers. Among these works, 23 are National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties. You might see them during the Geidai Collection Exhibition. This exhibition happens once or twice a year.
Please note something important. The University Art Museum doesn’t have a permanent exhibition. You can only enter when a special exhibition is on. So, check the online schedule before you visit.
Before we move on, take a moment to appreciate the dedication and passion that has shaped The University Art Museum into the cultural gem it is today. It stands as a testament to the power of art. It is a bridge connecting past, present and future generations of artists and art enthusiasts.