As a big fan of Japanese art, especially woodblock prints, here is my list of places to see Japanese art and culture in Chicago. This is just a starting list, there are more places in Chicago to visit, so I will keep adding. In the meantime, read on for my highlights…
First up, of course, the Art Institute of Chicago. This is a great museum to see pretty much any kind of artwork in Chicago and its located right by Millenium Park. Definitely worth a visit. This Japanese collection is part of their Asian collection, which is comprised of works from China, Korea, India, southwest Asia, and the Near and Middle East, including Japan. The highlights of the Japanese art collection are the Japanese screens and paintings. Their collection of Japanese woodblock prints is one of the finest in the world, artists who’s work is in the collection include, Utagawa Hiroshige, Katsukawa Shunkô, Katsushika Hokusai, and Kitagawa Utamaro.
Next up, the Smart Museum of Art part of the University of Chicago and located on the Hyde Park, Chicago campus, this museum houses a beautiful permanent collection of artworks. They have a great collection of works on paper that range from the European Old Masters to Japanese woodblock prints. Katsushika Hokusai and Utagawa Hiroshige are two of the well known artists who’s prints are represented in the collection.
Also, if you’ve got time, consider traveling to the Anderson Japanese Gardens. Located in Rockford, IL, its a bit of a way outside the city, but when in search of serene spaces, sometimes one must travel a bit further…The gardens are open May 1st – October 31st annually and it will cost you $6 for an adult. Check out the website for some beautiful pictures!
On your garden agenda should also be the Chicago Botanical Garden, which has a beautiful Japanese garden. The website will tell you what is in bloom and, take note, the gardens will be open till 9 pm during the summer, so check it out!
So, you’ve seen some Japanese art & experienced the beauty of the Japanese gardens and want to take home some art? Check out some of these websites and Chicago stores for your Japanese art and culture needs:
Aiko’s Art Materials Import – all kinds of handmade papers, books, and lots of cool stuff.
Green Tea Designs - Toronto, Canada based Asian furniture store, traditional furniture reapplied to contemporary means.
Plane Spoken – Chicago based furniture designer. Have your own shoji designed to fit your needs. Interesting website, but I haven’t had the chance to order anything yet!
HomeMuseum – Chicago based retailer of Japanese reproduction prints. High quality reproductions of famous Hokusai prints with more to come.
Walsh Gallery – Chicago gallery of contemporary Asian art.
Pagoda Red – Chicago gallery of Asian antiques located in Bucktown.
I’m always interested in learning other places to visit or purchase Japanese art, so let me know those favorite places I may have forgotten.
