An Exhibition Exploring Nordic Modern Art and the Achievements of Female Artists

Finland in the late 19th and early 20th centuries was a period of vigorous independence movements from Russia. In 1917, under a new regime with a democratic constitution, profound changes occurred in the position and role of women in society. The art world was no exception; unusually for Europe at the time, Finland's first art school encouraged equal art education for men and women from its inception. Women in Finland during this era seized opportunities for scholarships and study abroad, honing their skills in an international environment while forging independent careers as artists.

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Finland, "Modern Women – The Women Artists Who Enriched Finnish Art" focuses on the female artists who lived in Finland before and after its independence and brought innovation to modern art. The exhibition will feature approximately 90 works, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints, showcasing the unique expressions pursued throughout their lives by seven women artists, such as Helene Schjerfbeck (1862–1946), who has garnered global attention in recent years, and the sculptor Sigrid af Forselles (1860–1935), who studied under Rodin in Paris and served as an assistant in the creation of his masterpiece "The Burghers of Calais."

This exhibition is based on an international touring exhibition organized by the Finnish National Gallery Ateneum, which was held in three European and American cities. The Japanese presentation includes original content, such as sketchbooks from the artists' student days and studies undertaken at the Académie Julian and Académie Colarossi in Paris. Visitors can gain a comprehensive understanding of the art education available to women living in Finland at the time and their contributions to art and culture. Symposia, lectures, and gallery talks are also scheduled during the exhibition period, offering a valuable opportunity to engage with Finnish culture and art.



Japan-Finland Diplomatic Relations 100th Anniversary Commemoration
“Modern Women – The Women Artists Who Enriched Finnish Art”

Dates | Tuesday, June 18 – Monday, September 23, 2019
Venue | Exhibition Halls, The National Museum of Western Art, New Building
Address | 7-7 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours | 9:30 – 17:30 (Fridays and Saturdays: 9:30 – 21:00). Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
Closed | Mondays (except for Monday, July 15; Monday, August 12; Monday, September 16; and Monday, September 23, 2019). Tuesday, July 16.
Organizers | The National Museum of Western Art, Finnish National Gallery Ateneum Art Museum
Support | Embassy of Finland, Finland Center
Grant | The Japan-Finland Sasakawa Foundation
Cooperation | Finnair, Yamato Global Logistics Japan, The Association for the Promotion of Western Art