Home / Events / The Otake Impact - Japanese-Style Anarchism of the Three Otake Brothers- Etsudo, Chikuha, and Kokkan

The Otake Impact - Japanese-Style Anarchism of the Three Otake Brothers- Etsudo, Chikuha, and Kokkan

Starts 10/19

Artists

Etsudo Otake, Chikuha Otake, Kokkan Otake

There were once three brothers who were painters, who achieved remarkable success in the official art exhibitions and the Tazumi Art Society. The three Otake brothers—Etsudo (1868–1931), Chikuha (1878–1936), and Kokkan (1880–1945)—were born in Niigata Prefecture and left their mark on the history of modern Japanese painting. They achieved great success in various exhibitions, including those of the Ministry of Education Art Exhibition, from the Meiji through the Showa periods, earning the title "children of the exhibitions." However, the Otake brothers, who often pursued radical and sometimes experimental creations and lived unconventional lives, have been subject to both praise and criticism and have largely been overlooked in the narratives of art history.

This exhibition is the first in Tokyo to introduce the Otake brothers. It will showcase not only their important works but also numerous newly discovered pieces and previously unpublished materials, shedding light on the unknown aspects of the Otake brothers and their works.

Additionally, the exhibition will explore their connection with Tomoito Sumitomo (pen name: Shunsui), the 15th head of the Sumitomo family, with whom they had a close friendship. By bringing together the works of these three brothers, who thrived within the exhibition system, the exhibition offers a comprehensive view of the rich development of Nihonga (Japanese-style painting) and the achievements of exhibition art.

Schedule

Oct 19 (Sat) 2024-Dec 15 (Sun) 2024