Japan supernatural

Japan supernatural
02.11.2019 - 08.03.2020

Be spirited away to the fascinating world of Japan supernatural, an extraordinary exhibition revealing three centuries of folklore and fantasy in Japanese art. Discover this wildly imaginative realm through more than 180 works from historical master Katsushika Hokusai through to contemporary superstar Takashi Murakami.

Through masterworks from collections worldwide and the Gallery’s own rich holdings, Japan supernatural introduces an astonishing array of phenomenal beings from fiendish goblins through to mischievous shapeshifters. Come face to face with these mysterious creatures in an immersive environment featuring large-scale installations and classic Japanese cinema and animation, alongside miniature carvings, humorous paintings and the vibrant ukiyo-e woodblock prints that define the tradition of the supernatural in Japanese art.

Centred on a monumental installation of painting and sculpture by Takashi Murakami, the exhibition features some of the greatest Japanese artists of the past including Katsushika Hokusai, Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Tsukioka Yoshitoshi and Kawanabe Kyosai, alongside contemporary artists Chiho Aoshima and Miwa Yanagi who update the tradition for our times.

Strong light can damage sensitive artworks. We are keeping light levels low in certain areas and some fragile works on paper will be replaced during the exhibition period.