Shimane Art Museum in Matsue Area

About the Museum

The Shimane Art Museum is located in the Matsue area of Shimane, Shimane, Japan. It is a modern and contemporary art museum that showcases the works of local and international artists. The museum was opened in 1999 and has since become a popular destination for art lovers from around the world.

The museum has a collection of over 2,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, featuring the works of both established and emerging artists.

The museum's building is a work of art in itself, designed by architect Kiyonori Kikutake. The building is made of reinforced concrete and features a unique triangular shape that blends in with the surrounding landscape. The museum's interior is spacious and bright, with natural light filtering in from the large windows.

The museum is open from 9:30am to 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Admission is 1,000 yen for adults, 800 yen for college students, and free for high school students and younger.

Approximate latitude and longitude: 35.4506° N, 133.0503° E

Permanent Collection

The museum's permanent collection includes works by both Japanese and international artists. Some of the highlights include:

  • Yayoi Kusama: The museum has several works by this famous Japanese artist, including her signature polka dot paintings and sculptures.
  • Pablo Picasso: The museum has a small collection of Picasso's works, including a lithograph and a ceramic plate.
  • Andy Warhol: The museum has several of Warhol's iconic screenprints, including his famous Campbell's Soup Cans.
  • Yves Klein: The museum has a large painting by this French artist, known for his use of the color blue.
  • Shinro Ohtake: This Japanese artist is known for his mixed media collages, and the museum has several of his works on display.

Temporary Exhibitions

The museum hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year, featuring the works of both established and emerging artists. Some of the upcoming exhibitions include:

  • Contemporary Japanese Ceramics: This exhibition will showcase the works of several Japanese ceramic artists, highlighting the diversity and innovation of the medium. (March 1 - May 31, 2022)
  • Women in Art: This exhibition will feature the works of female artists from around the world, exploring themes of identity, representation, and empowerment. (June 1 - August 31, 2022)
  • Exploring Nature: This exhibition will showcase works that explore the relationship between humans and nature, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. (September 1 - November 30, 2022)

Getting There

The Shimane Art Museum is located in the Matsue area of Shimane, Shimane, Japan. The closest train station is Matsue Station, which is served by the JR Sanin Line and the Ichibata Electric Railway. From Matsue Station, take the Ichibata Electric Railway to Shimane Arts Center Station, which is a 5-minute walk from the museum.

If you are driving, the museum has a large parking lot with free parking for visitors.