Shikō Munakata: A Way of Seeing

Shikō Munakata: A Way of Seeing features nearly 100 works drawn from Japan Society’s significant collection—many of which have not been on public view in over 50 years—that represent important developments in the artist’s oeuvre. From his first landscape series of 1964 to his early experimentation with the lithograph and techniques such as back-coloring (urazaishiki), the works on view present a glimpse into the rich trajectory of Shikō Munakata’s (1903–1975) five-decades-long career. The installation marks the 125th exhibition at Japan Society’s Gallery, and underscores Munakata’s first time in the United States, as a Japan Society Fellow in 1959 in New York. Included are several rare works the artist made during this pivotal time.

No matter the medium, Munakata’s artistic explorations were characterized by a spirited curiosity and relentless experimentation. Munakata incorporated diverse sources and inspiration in his dynamic works, including Japanese folk tales, Buddhism, Japanese and American literature and poetry, and nature motifs. With his bold, expressive lines and sketch-like appearance, Munakata developed an innovative style that remained a constant across a remarkable range of mediums and formats. 

Primarily known for his woodblock prints, this exhibition introduces an important, though lesser-known, body of work, including Munakata’s highly-regarded calligraphy, sumi ink paintings, watercolors, lithography, and ceramics. A highlight of the installation is the complete Tōkaidō Road Series (1964), a set of 61 prints—half in color and half in black-and-white—that depict scenes the artist witnessed while traveling along the historic coastal route between Tokyo and Kyoto. Munakata’s series extends to Osaka, building upon the 19th-century ukiyo-e master printmaker Utagawa Hiroshige’s (1797–1858) portrayal of the traditional 53 stations. This full set by Munakata will be on view in the U.S. for the first time since 1965.

Shikō Munakata: A Way of Seeing is organized by Japan Society and curated by Tiffany Lambert, Curator, Japan Society. Original exhibition design is by New York-and-Barcelona based MAIO with graphic design by Eline Mul.

Shikō Munakata: A Way of Seeing is supported, in part, by the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation, the W.L.S. Spencer Foundation, and The American Chai Trust.

Exhibitions and Arts & Culture Lecture Programs at Japan Society are made possible, in part, by the Lila Wallace-Reader’s Digest Endowment Fund, the Mary Griggs Burke Endowment Fund established by the Mary Livingston Griggs and Mary Griggs Burke Foundation, Masako H. Shinn, Peggy and Dick Danziger, Raphael and Jane Bernstein, Friends of the Gallery, and an anonymous donor. Support for Arts & Culture Lecture Programs is provided, in part, by the Sandy Heck Lecture Fund. Transportation assistance is provided by Japan Airlines and American Airlines, the exclusive Japanese and U.S. airline sponsors for Japan Society gallery exhibitions.