Warrington Museum’s new exhibition, Edo’s Floating World, transports visitors back in time to the bustling entertainment district of Edo (modern Tokyo), offering a rare opportunity to view the museum’s collection of Japanese woodblock theatre prints, last displayed in 2012.
The exhibition, on until Sunday 16th March, focuses on Ukiyo-e, or ‘pictures of the floating world,’ an art form that thrived during Japan’s Tokugawa period (1603-1868). This period saw the rise of Kabuki theatre—a blend of dance, music, and drama—captivating audiences across major cities like Edo. The increasing popularity of Kabuki led to the rise of renowned printmakers such as Utagawa Kunisada and Toyohara Kunichika.
These artists, alongside icons like Katsushika Hokusai, influenced Western artists like Monet and Van Gogh, and Edo’s Floating World provides a chance to explore their work beyond the well-known Hokusai prints, offering insight into other significant artists of the era.
Curated by Mya O’Leary, a volunteer at the museum and one of its youngest curators at 23, the exhibition highlights the historical importance of Japanese woodblock prints.
Mya, said: “I admire Japanese woodblock prints for a variety of reasons, but my favourite is their historical significance and how much they have influenced western artists over the years.”
Her own passion for Japanese art began with Manga at age 12, growing into an interest in the art history she explored while studying at the Cambridge School of Visual and Performing Arts.
After joining the museum as a volunteer in February last year, Mya delved into the museum’s collection of 35 theatre prints, which laid the foundation for the exhibition. She selected 16 prints to offer visitors a glimpse into the dynamic culture of Edo, Japan.
“It was simply an awe-inspiring experience for me,” Mya, added. “From the intricate details of the costumes illustrated, to the fact that this was almost like a snapshot of life in Edo, Japan.”
Edo’s Floating World is now open and free to view at Warrington Museum until March 16. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the captivating world of Kabuki theatre and Ukiyo-e, exploring the rich cultural history of Japan.
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Image (Culture Warrington)