Italian artist Giorgio de Chirico, born in Greece in the 20th century, created works influenced by Nietzsche’s philosophy and Becklin’s art while living in Munich, known as “metaphysical painting.” His art shocked poets like Apollinaire and the Surrealists, but later faced criticism for reproducing past works. Despite this, de Chirico remained faithful to his creative approach throughout his lifetime, avoiding being swayed by public opinion. The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum is hosting a retrospective exhibition of de Chirico’s works, showcasing his impact on 20th-century art. The exhibit includes paintings, sculptures, and performance art, offering a rare opportunity to appreciate the full scope of de Chirico’s artistry.
In the 20th century, the master Giorgio de Chirico was born in Greece to Italian parents. During his time in Munich, he was influenced by Nietzsche’s philosophy and Becklin’s works, creating works called “metaphysical painting.”
His works shocked poets like Apollinaire and Surrealists, but later on, his method of reproducing or referring to past works was criticized.
However, he remained faithful to his creative approach throughout his life, unaffected by public opinion.
The “De Chirico Exhibition” at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum is a major retrospective of De Chirico’s work, the first in Japan in 10 years. (April 27th to August 29th)
I asked Yasuyuki Takagi, curator of the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, about the highlights of this exhibition.
“Giorgio De Chirico (1888-1978), a painter representing the 20th century. The metaphysical paintings he painted around 1910 are concrete yet characterized by unnatural spatial expressions and the placement of unrelated motifs. This suggests the hidden mysteries and presence in painting, deep within our daily lives.”
His works had a significant influence on contemporary artists and later generations of painters. This exhibition is a retrospective tracing De Chirico’s 90-year life, which influenced 20th-century painting.
Particularly intriguing are the metaphysical paintings he created in the 1910s. During this period, he painted “The Prophet” and “Metaphysical Muse” featuring mannequins. The mannequin not only allowed the representation of the most important figures in Western painting as objects but could also symbolize the irrational or powerless human being.
In addition to paintings, this exhibition will also feature sculptures, illustrations, and performance art. It’s a unique opportunity to carefully examine the entirety of De Chirico’s artwork and appreciate its charm. Please enjoy it at the venue.”
This exhibition follows the footsteps of De Chirico, the reclusive painter who continued to pursue his own style until he passed away at 90. Take your time to see it in person.
[Event Details]
Chirico Exhibition
Date: Saturday, April 27, 2024 – Thursday, August 29, 2024
Location: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
Address: 8-36 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Phone number: 050-5541-8600 (Hello Dial)
Exhibition official website: https://dechirico.exhibit.jp/
Opening hours: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm, Fridays until 8:00 pm (last entry 30 minutes before closing time in each room)
Closed on Mondays (except for April 29, May 6, July 8, August 12), May 7 (Tuesday), July 9 (Tuesday) – 16 (Tuesday)
Price: Refer to the official website
Access: Refer to the official website
* Reservations required for weekends, holidays, and after August 20 (entry possible if there are available slots on the day)
Interview/Text: Mie Ikeda