Modernism was an artistic and philosophical movement that emerged in the early 20th century that was characterised by its focus on functionality, simplicity and rejection of traditional decorative styles.
Modernist designers believed that good design should be accessible to everyone, and they sought to create simple and affordable homeware that was also aesthetically pleasing.
To celebrate their visionary work, the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum is hosting an exhibition showcasing around 400 modernist wares and artworks, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, tableware, clothes, and architecture.
These pieces were developed in Europe and Japan during the 1910s to 1930s, highlighting the decorative arts and modern design. The exhibition is divided into four sections, each representing a timeline from the early 1900s to the late 1930s. The first and second sections cover the periods of 1910 to 1913 and 1914 to 1925, respectively, exploring new fashion and decoration trends originating from the Wiener Werkstätte. The third section (1919-1925) and fourth section (1926-1938) showcase French and Japanese modernism and modern design in fashion, focusing on the German Bauhaus movement.
Please note that admission to the exhibition requires a reservation.