The Louvre Abu Dhabi’s second exhibition in 2018 will open on 6 September and will be accompanied by a creative youth space and public programming that celebrates Japanese culture.
‘Japanese Connections: The Birth of Modern Décor’, Louvre Abu Dhabi’s first exhibition for the 2018 autumn season, will open on 6 September with a display of 19thand 20th century paintings, prints and folding screens that highlight the artistic and cultural dialogue between Japan and France, and the important influence of the colourful ukiyo-e aesthetics on modern decorative arts.
"‘Japanese Connections’ will shine a light on one significant moment of exchange and inspiration; these moments open our eyes to the interconnected history of human societies, nurturing shared understanding."
“Louvre Abu Dhabi’s ethos celebrates cultural connection, dialogue and exchange, and this approach is intrinsic to our curation throughout the permanent galleries and international exhibitions,” explains Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi. Manuel Rabaté. “‘Japanese Connections’ will shine a light on one significant moment of exchange and inspiration; these moments open our eyes to the interconnected history of human societies, nurturing shared understanding.”
In 1853, Japan’s trade opened to the West for the first time in 220 years, giving rise to a deep fascination with Far Eastern aesthetics that lasted in Europe for fifty years. In particular, woodblock prints and paintings in the iconic ukiyo-e style influenced some of Europe’s most renowned painters.
‘Japanese Connections’ will present 41 artworks and 15 documents by 12 artists, including French artists Paul Sérusier, Pierre Bonnard, Maurice Denis, Ker-Xavier Roussel, Édouard Vuillard who made up the renowned Nabis group of artists; Marguerite Sérusier and Odilon Redon; and five Japanese ukiyo-e masters: Katsushika Hokusai, Hara Zaimei, Utagawa Hiroshige, Kano Tanshin and Toshusai Sharaku.
In addition to the exhibition, there public programming that celebrates the arts and culture of Japan, including curatorial talks and a ‘Big in Japan’ festival on October 26 and 27, which will feature DJs, spoken word poetry, screenings of Studio Ghibli anime films and Japanese cooking classes.
Located in Louvre Abu Dhabi’s forum, the Manga Lab will be a creative and experimental space for teenagers and young adults offering a variety of entertaining experiences to explore contemporary Japanese culture, including virtual reality, retro arcade gaming, a graffiti and expression wall, a chill-out reading area, and a series of masterclasses and workshops about Manga and graphic art.
‘Japanese Connections’ will be on display from 6 September until 24 November, with tickets included in the entrance to Louvre Abu Dhabi.
