The Hokusai: Inspiration and Influence exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is a must-see for anyone interested in Japanese art, culture, or history. It is available from March 26–July 16, 2023; you must buy tickets online and put them on your calendar. This exhibit features the works of Katsushika Hokusai, a renowned ukiyo-e artist from the 19th century, and artists he has influenced and taught, such as Hiroshige, Whistler, and Van Gogh.
The Hokusai exhibit is a remarkable experience, allowing visitors to admire some of Hokusai’s most significant and beautiful works. Each room and piece of art flows to the present day by drawing connections and showing how Hokusai’s legacy lives on in others’ works.
Tips:
- The exhibit is located at Ann and Graham Gund Gallery (Gallery LG31).
- There are stairs and an elevator for visitors to reach the gallery, making it accessible to everyone.
- If you get lost, the staff and guards are very friendly
- Make sure to download the MFA mobile app to access the Audio Content while walking the exhibit for more in-depth information about the displayed pieces.
- Sometimes reading all the placards and gathering all the details in crowds is hard, but the mobile app provides a convenient alternative.
- As always, respect the rules for the exhibit and museum, as art is for everyone and deserves proper care and attention.
The details of sketchbooks and paintings made by Hokusai offer a glimpse into his creative process and how he created such stunning works of art. Some interactive displays allow you to explore Hokusai’s techniques and learn about the tools he employed. Moreover, the exhibit includes a vast collection of Hokusai’s works and artifacts that provide insight into his life, influences, materials used in creating his works, and his legacy.
Artists ranging in medium, from drawings to paintings and sculptures, are featured in this exhibit alongside Hokusai works, working up to the main attraction.
The Wave.
The Wave is the most famous piece in the exhibit, showcasing Hokusai’s unique style and creativity. Surrounding it are other artists’ interpretations of the iconic work, truly highlighting Hokusai’s influence on the art world.
The exhibit ends in a gift shop filled with souvenirs and art prints, allowing visitors to bring a piece of the Hokusai exhibit into their homes. The impact of Hokusai on art and culture has been immense, as he has inspired countless artists in Japan and around the world. There is a book of all the featured works available for purchase, allowing visitors to continue learning and drawing inspiration from Hokusai long after the exhibit has ended.
I do not like spoiling too much of an exhibit experience, but I must urge everyone to see the Hokusai: Inspiration and Influence exhibit at the MFA Boston. The exhibit provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness firsthand the works of one of the most significant artists in history and learn about his unique approach to art-making. The carefully curated exhibit provides a comprehensive understanding of Hokusai’s life, influences, and impact on art and culture. Additionally, as we all continue to face restrictions and limitations in our daily lives due to the pandemic, visiting an exhibit like this can provide a much-needed break from the monotony of our day-to-day routines and remind us of the beauty and creativity in this world.
The Hokusai: Inspiration and Influence exhibit at the MFA Boston is a must-see if you’re an art lover looking for something different and inspiring. You must check it out before it gets taken down until July 16th, 2023. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the evolution of Hokusai’s art and explore how he became one of history’s most influential and revered artists.
I hope you enjoyed the sneak peek!
Happy inspirations!
<3 Ann