Step into the colorful world of Koji Kinutani［PR］

Maido! Kim here.
Are you familiar with Koji Kinutani?
He’s a worldly artist from Japan and to me, someone who came to Osaka with a deep appreciation for Japanese art, he’s kind of a hero. Plus the Koji Kinutani museum is located in one of Japan’s most iconic pieces of architecture, Umeda Sky Building.

The world illustrated by this forefront fresco artist

Koji Kinutani is a leading fresco painter and his style is marked by an abundant use of vibrant color, force, and energy. Whether the painting is a portrait or landscape, the bold colors bring forth a sense of vitality and creativity that will charm even the novice art-lover.

The term fresco, taken from the Italian word affresco (fresh), describes a painting technique in which pigment is applied to wet plaster using water as a medium. The pigment is then absorbed into the plaster before it dries naturally.
This technique is known to have existed all the way back in the BCE years, however it was perfected during the Renaissance period. It can be seen in the masterpieces of Michelangelo Buonarroti and is an example of a classic technique that has been passed down through many centuries. Koji Kinutani is one of the artists who has continued this tradition and has brought the fresco technique into the modern age. That’s pretty amazing when you think about it!
Oh, and another thing, you may know his work from his official 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics poster.

Koji Kinutani Tenku Museum at Umeda Sky Building

Immerse yourself in the artwork of Koji Kinutani at Koji Kinutani Tenku Museum in Umeda Sky Building. Located in the heart of Osaka, this urban museum is a short 9 minute walk from JR Osaka Station.
It’s quite obvious from the museum name that it displays works from the artist, but that is not all. From the moment you step inside the museum, you’ll notice a soft lofty feeling. The cloud-like carpet spreads out before you and the “Symbol Zone” is shrouded in a whimsical curtain pulling you into the fantastical world of the artist. Located on the 27th floor, it almost feels like you’re walking among the clouds.

The playful atmosphere of the museum starts with an unusual exhibit, the 3D art experience. Delve into the works of Koji Kinutani and experience Japanese symbolism including flying dragons, views of Mt. Fuji, and Osaka Castle in a dynamic 3D projection. Don’t miss this performance of vitality emerging from the artworks and portrayed on screen. After viewing, you’ll recognize the same artworks in the physical pieces on display in the museum’s red and blue exhibition zones. It’s extremely well-curated!

The museum also has a selection of items for sale.
The t-shirts, mugs, postcards, and other merchandise all show off the incredibly vibrant artwork. Pick something up as a gift for friends or family. Or more importantly, choose a memorable souvenir for yourself. Don’t you just want one of your very own!