Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on February 2010

Swans, oil on canvas, 1920-1921, William Morris Gallery, London
©DAVID BRANGWYN

As much a personal history as an art show, “Exhibition of Frank Brangwyn” tells the story of the British arts polymath and his relationship with Kojiro Matsukata, the industrial magnate whose collection formed the basis of the National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo. A self-trained painter and designer, Brangwyn helped Matsukata, the first president of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, build his collection. Held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the museum, the exhibition presents not only paintings but also designs for carpets, furniture, ceramics, prints and illustrated books, as well as the depictions of shipyards and laborers that so fascinated Matsukata and led him to begin to buy works by Brangwyn and others.

The National Museum of Western Art
Hina and Japanese Dolls. Until Mar 28, free (HS and under, 70 and over)/¥400 (univ)/¥600 (adult). Frank Brangwyn. Painting, drawing. Until May 30, free (MS and under)/¥700 (HS)/¥1,200 (univ)/¥1,500 (adult). Modern Drawings from the National Museum of Western Art: Selections from the Matsukata Collection and Post-1959 Acquisitions. Until May 30, free (HS and under, 65 and over)/¥130 (univ)/¥420 (general). 7-7 Ueno Park, Taito-ku. Tel: 03-3828-5131. Open Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:30pm, closed Mon. Nearest stn: Ueno. www.nmwa.go.jp