To celebrate its 50th anniversary, the Hakone Open-Air Museum has completely renovated and reopened its Picasso Pavilion. The themed exhibition "Picasso's Challenge: Metamorphosis of Form" is running until around March 2021.

Interior of the Picasso Pavilion
©2019 - Succession Pablo Picasso - BCF (JAPAN)
The Picasso Pavilion opened in 1984 to specialize in the works of Pablo Picasso, a representative Spanish artist of the 20th century. Since then, the museum has gradually opened its Picasso collection, which currently consists of 319 pieces, primarily ceramics. This marks the first renovation since the museum opened 35 years ago, completely renewing both the interior and the facilities. The interior, with all new floors, walls, and ceilings, has a natural, bright feel to match Hakone's abundant nature. New air conditioning has also been installed, and a vestibule has been added to enhance airtightness. Furthermore, high-transmittance glass is used for the protective cases, ensuring the glass is not noticeable. The latest LED lighting, which emits no UV rays or heat, minimizes the impact on the artworks. To create an exhibition space that brings Picasso closer to the artist, the exhibits are categorized into three sections by technique. Room 1 displays large-scale works and oil paintings, a dedicated gemail area, an introductory video about Picasso, and archival photographs. Room 2 displays ceramics, and Room 3 displays small paintings arranged chronologically, along with gold and silver objects. The exhibition explores the diversity and transformation of Picasso's work and the image of the versatile artist, along with his words.

Still Life with a Cat, October 23rd &minus November 1st, oil on canvas
©2019 - Succession Pablo Picasso - BCF (JAPAN)
The thematic exhibition "Picasso's Challenge: Metamorphosis of Form," running from July 27th to around March 2021, will feature a total of 124 works, including 103 Picasso works, 20 portrait photographs of Picasso, and one portrait of Picasso by Pablo Gargallo. Exhibition Room 1, titled "Picasso's Challenge," showcases the many changes in Picasso's painting style, such as his use of materials like gemmail (stained glass) and tapestry (woven fabrics) to create new appeal based on his oil paintings. Exhibition Room 2, themed "Now, Let's Try It Again!", showcases plates, vases, and pots filled with Picasso's humor and childlike sensibility, as he became interested in ceramics after turning 65. Exhibition Room 3, titled "Transformations of Form," displays works in which Picasso transformed images using metals such as bronze, gold, and silver. It also features prints, in which the process of transforming an image through various modifications to a single plate was crucial. Enjoy the Picasso collection in this newly renovated exhibition room.