Rediscovering Hidden Treasures: Japanese Art Collections in the UK as our Shared Heritage

27 November 2013, from 6.30pm

The Japan Foundation, London

Russell Square House, 10-12 Russell Square, London WC1B 5EH

 Clockwise from left: © National Museums Scotland; © Edinburgh City Council; The Japan Foundation, London 

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the formation of public museums in the UK allowed large collections of Japanese art and artefacts to be seen for the first time by the British public and today, Japanese collections are housed in over 150 museums, galleries and other public institutions all over the UK. Deriving from a variety of origins and dating from prehistory to present day, the objects have helped paint a picture of Japanese life, history and culture. However, despite the best efforts of experts, the extent of collections available in the UK has not yet fully been discovered, spurring a recent research project to review exactly what they are.

Bringing together experts in the field and, this session will introduce this recent research project on Japanese collections in the UK and beyond, and will look into the current state of, and issues surrounding, these collections. Reflecting on the wealth of Japanese collections at UK and re-evaluating its significance, a discussion will be made about how such further efforts can benefit those who are entrusted national heritage as well as the general public and how our shared heritage can be utilised and cherished for future generations to come.

Programme:

Presentations:
Prof Akihiro Kinda, President, National Institute for the Humanities, Japan
Yoshi Miki, Curatorial Consultant and Visiting Professor, National Museum of Japanese History, Sakura, Japan
Dr Rosina Buckland, Senior Curator, National Museums Scotland

Discussion panel:
Dr David Anderson, Director General of National Museum Wales (chair)
Prof Akihiro Kinda, President, National Institute for the Humanities, Japan
Yoshi Miki, Curatorial Consultant and Visiting Professor, National Museum of Japanese History, Sakura, Japan
Dr Rosina Buckland, Senior Curator, National Museums Scotland

This is a following session from the conference and public seminar Hidden Treasures: The Role and Significance of Japanese Art Collections in UK Museums held in 2006 and for those who work in heritage sector and all who care for Japanese art collections in the UK.

This event is free to attend but booking is essential. To reserve a place, please email your name and the title of the event you would like to attend to event@jpf.org.uk