Hakone is one of the most popular destinations for those searching for a break from Tokyo, thanks to its hot springs, natural beauty, and a view of nearby Mount Fuji across Lake Ashinoko.
I was pleasantly surprised that there was a Picasso Museum in Hakone, located less than 100km from Tokyo. Therefore, one early spring morning my family and I took a rather leisurely train ride from Tokyo to scenic Hakone.
The Hakone Open Air Museum
The Hakone Open-Air Museum was Japan's first open-air museum, and it opened in Hakone in 1969. The two major components of this museum are the double-storey Piccasso Pavillon and the outdoor exhibits
Piccasso Pavillon
Although Pablo Picasso worked as an artist in France for most of his adult life, he was actually born in Spain in 1881. He produced almost 20,000 paintings, sketches, sculptures, pottery, and other items such as costumes and theatre sets throughout the course of his illustrious career. He had established himself as the most well-known name in modern art, with distinctive style and aesthetic vision. Before Picasso, no other artist had had the same impact on the art world or attracted such a large following of admirers and critics.
Over 300 pieces by Pablo Picasso are housed in the Picasso Pavillon. It features works using a variety of methods, including painting, sculpture, tapestry, and gold or silver objects and is centered around a set of 188 ceramic works purchased from Picasso's daughter, Maya Picasso.
Picasso began experimenting with ceramics, which use clay, glazes, and fire to create changes when he was about 65 years old. He became absorbed in this medium of expression, which combines elements of painting and sculpture. Using a variety of subjects, one form leads to the next, resulting in an associative image.
Outdoor Exhibits
By displaying diverse sculptures on its grounds in conjunction with views of the surrounding valley and mountains, the outdoor displays effectively establish a harmonious balance of nature and art.
About 100 masterpieces by both local Japanese artists and international artists such as Moore and Rodin are displayed in 70,000 square meters of picturesque garden with majestic mountains in the background.
In particular, I would like to highlight some sculptures by the famous English artist Henry Moore. He is well renowned for his semi-abstract monumental bronze sculptures that may be found in public spaces all around the world.
Family Group, Bronze Sculpture
My wife and daughter in front of the Mother and Child: Block Seat, Bronze Sculpture
Reclining Figure, Bronze Sculpture
My family and I spent the whole morning mesmerized by the artworks in the Open Air Museum. The initial attraction of our visit was to admire Picasso's world-famous artworks. However, what captured our hearts were the wonderful and imaginative outdoor exhibits blending in nature's canvas of blue sky, green trees and brownish mountains of Hakone.
The rest of the afternoon was spent exploring Hakone Town. Our trip to Hakone ended with a cruise around Lake Ashinoko where we experienced a spectacular sunset.
So if you are in Tokyo, do make a trip to discover the enchanting Hakone Open Air Museum and its surroundings.
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