A Place for Quiet Contemplation – Encountering Ei-kyu and Magritte at the Miyazaki Prefectural Art Museum

Introduction: A Quiet Space for the Curious Traveler

Just a short distance from the center of Miyazaki City, a discreet cultural haven awaits. Since opening its doors in 1995, the Miyazaki Prefectural Art Museum has been committed to serving as an accessible and inclusive art institution for both residents and visitors alike. It offers a peaceful environment where one can engage with carefully curated artworks from Japan and abroad—away from the crowds.

Main Body: Ei-kyu’s Legacy and a Conversation with Surrealism

At the heart of the museum’s collection is the work of Ei-kyu (1911–1960), a pioneering postwar avant-garde artist born in Miyazaki. With nearly 1,000 works spanning oil paintings, photograms, and prints, Ei-kyu’s oeuvre is showcased in a dedicated exhibition room that allows visitors to explore his evolving artistic journey.

One standout is Tsubasa, a large-format pointillist piece created during Ei-kyu’s final days. Densely layered with dots of color, the work resonates with quiet intensity, inviting viewers to experience the artist’s inner world.

Ei-kyu’s own explorations into surrealism find a compelling echo in the museum’s international holdings. Masterpieces such as René Magritte’s The Sense of Reality highlight the depth of the museum’s surrealist collection, which also features works by Dalí, Ernst, Delvaux, and others. Regularly rotating exhibitions introduce visitors to key modernists like Picasso, Signac, and Bonnard—ensuring a dynamic experience with every visit.

Conclusion: Art Without Distraction, Time Without Rush

Exhibitions at the museum change four times a year, and while some iconic works may not always be on view, admission to the permanent collection remains free of charge—a rare opportunity to experience high-caliber art without pressure or pretense.

In addition to paintings, the museum houses an impressive selection of Italian modern sculptures, along with works by regional artists such as Yamada Shinichi and Onō Hikosaburō. Whether you're drawn to surrealism or to local Japanese masters, the museum offers space for both reflection and discovery.

At the Miyazaki Prefectural Art Museum, art is not just displayed—it invites you into a quiet conversation. Let Ei-kyu’s introspective brushwork and Magritte’s enigmatic imagery accompany your journey through the deeper layers of aesthetic experience.