Welcome, art enthusiasts and culture vultures! Today, we’re embarking on a virtual tour of the Oita Prefectural Art Museum (大分県立美術館), a gem in the heart of Japan’s Oita Prefecture, approximately 30 minutes from central Beppu. This museum is a testament to the vibrant and diverse art scene in Japan, and it is not to be confused with the nearby Oita City Museum. So, buckle up, folks! We’re in for an artistic adventure.
Oita Prefectural Art Museum: A Cultural Beacon
The Oita Prefectural Art Museum is a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the past, present, and future of Japanese art. But what makes OPAM stand out from the crowd? Let’s find out. The museum houses a collection of over 10,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles. The museum’s collection spans a wide range of periods and styles, from ancient Japanese art to contemporary works. Some of the highlights of the collection include a 12th-century Buddhist sculpture, a 17th-century screen painting, and a collection of modern Japanese paintings by artists such as Yoko Ono and Yayoi Kusama.
The museum also has a number of special exhibitions throughout the year, which showcase the work of Japanese and international artists. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also has a library, a research center, and a theater.
The Educational Role of OPAM
The Oita Prefectural Art Museum is not just a place to admire art; it’s a place to learn. The museum’s educational programs cater to a wide range of audiences, from school children to adults. These programs aim to foster an appreciation for art and culture, encouraging participants to engage with the artworks on a deeper level.
The Architectural Marvel
OPAM was inaugurated in April 2015, housed in a striking building designed by the renowned Japanese architect Ban Shigeru. Ban Shigeru is celebrated for his innovative designs that frequently incorporate structural elements made of cardboard and paper.
The museum’s exterior is encased in a wooden facade that mirrors woven bamboo handicrafts, a nod to traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The building features large glass walls that fold up, seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor spaces of the museum. This architectural marvel is not just a building, but a piece of art in itself.
The Artistic Journey
Upon entering the building, visitors are welcomed by a large atrium that houses a museum shop and space for large art installations, right next to the ticket counter. The art galleries are located on the third floor of the museum, accessible via a spacious entryway with a gently curved, wood lattice ceiling.
The museum showcases a variety of art genres in its temporary exhibitions, ranging from paintings and sculptures to poetry and performance art. This diversity in artistic expression ensures that there is something for every art enthusiast.
The Permanent Exhibition
The museum’s modest permanent exhibition is also located on the third floor. It features paintings and other art pieces by local artists from Oita, with a special emphasis on Edo Period painter Tanomura Chikuden and modern painters Fukuda Heihachiro and Takayama Tasuo. This exhibition is a testament to the rich artistic heritage of Oita and the wider region.
How to get there?
The Oita Prefectural Art Museum is a 15-minute walk from Oita Station. Oita Station is a 15-minute train ride from Beppu, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
The Oita Prefectural Art Museum offers a unique blend of art, culture, and community. It’s a place that invites exploration, sparks curiosity, and fosters a deeper understanding of Japanese art.
