The Spencer Museum of Art hosts 'Japan's Meiji Period Art '

Monday, 12 February 2007 00:53

Lawrence, KS — The art of Japan’s Meiji period (1868-1912), on exhibition at The Spencer Museum of Art, reflects a story of transformation, adaptation, and rapid change set against a world of increasing globalization.  Literally meaning “enlightened rule,” the Meiji period began after the forced opening of trade in 1853 by American Commodore Matthew Perry and his fleet of “black ships,” the term used by the Japanese to describe the U.S. vessels. After two and a half centuries of near isolation, the opening of Japan’s borders created both opportunity and internal conflict.  To successfully transition into a world of growing globalization, Japan adopted many institutions and practices from Western nations, with the government employing foreign experts to assist in education and training of professionals, government officials, and the military. At the same time, many Japanese felt it crucial to maintain their traditions and culture in the face of rapid national transformations.

This exhibition was organized by guest curator Alison Miller, KU graduate student in art history.  “As our world continues to shrink I think it is interesting to explore the roots of global society,” Miller says.  “When Japan’s borders opened in the mid-19^th century, there was a great deal of cultural exchange with the United States and Europe, which is visually represented in the show.  It is fascinating to think about the impressions that these cultures had of each other, and to question how we have evolved from that point.”

The art of Japan’s Meiji period (1868-1912) is on exhibition at SPENCER MUSEUM OF ART through 17 June, 2007 at The University of Kansas.  Visit : www.spencerart.ku.edu