Live in Tokyo for a while, and you probably won’t even blink when you hear of a 42nd floor art gallery. But you should. Sompo Japan Museum of Art is set amongst the skyscrapers of Shinjuku, and does have a fantastic view, but it is impressionism rather than spectacle that should make your trip more than worthwhile. But then while Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, 1888, might drag you to the gallery, Tokyo will always be there beckoning from the vertigo-inducing windows. Where to look next? It’s nice dilemma to have.
The latest special exhibition to hit the gallery is that of French painter Henri Le Sidaner (1862-1939). Le Sidaner received a traditional art education in Paris, but began to paint bright and translucent works influenced by impressionism and neo-impressionism towards the turn of the century. He then established a world of his own, and his career flourished when painting familiar scenes in a tranquil and introspective style (pictured above is his Blue Table, Gerberoy, 1923). It’s all catalogued and introduced neatly here in Tokyo, with around 70 works borrowed from private collections around the world.
Check out the art, then admire the view with a coffee. Problem solved.
When: From April 14th (Sat.) to July 1st (Sun.) 10.00 – 18.00
Where: Seiji Togo Memorial Sompo Japan Museum of Art
1-26-1, Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8338
Sompo Japan Headquarters build. 42nd floor
How much: Adults: 1,000yen (800yen) Children free.
