International ink painting exhibition announcement
The 23rd International Art Exhibition (Art beyond boundaries) opens this week, on January 22 at the National Art Center Tokyo. This exhibition is, as usual, strongly focused on contemporary ink art.
After “Night Rain at Kenrokuen” and “Returning Sails at Utasu Shrine“, two works from the “Eight Views of Kanazawa in Winter” series completed in 2025, I am approaching a literature classic. Celebrating the 1200th anniversary of author Ariwara no Narihira, my work is an often illustrated scene from “The Tales of Ise”. This new painting is on display at Gallery 2A of the National Art Center in Roppongi until February 1.
The Tales of Ise in art
The Tales of Ise are a combined poetry and prose classic in 125 episodes, on the topic of courtly love. And they remain a perennial inspiration for artists across multiple media. In Tokyo, a number of exhibitions – past and upcoming – celebrating the author’s birthday showcase this breadth.
About “Looking at Mount Fuji”
While visiting Tokyo in December, visual cues to the 2026 zodiac animal – the horse – were often present. Combining this symbol with learnings from the Tales displays, I opted for a new depiction of a well known scene. I chose this scene from episode nine – “Looking at Mount Fuji”.
Once more I was fortunate to be able to complete this scroll in Tokyo, under the guidance of Kobayashi Tohun Sensei. Whether it will be the only episode of the Tales I will paint, or the beginning of a new series, only the future will tell. I am deep into other 2026 artistic projects already.
If you have the chance to visit Tokyo during January 22 and February 1, you are most welcome to visit the exhibition. If you do visit and take an image or two, please do share with me at info[at]mafaldatenente.com or tag my account @mtenente on instagram.
I hope the combination of Mount Fuji – one of three auspicious new year dreams in Japan – and the elegant horse rider will bring joy to its viewers. Perhaps inspire the one or other to pick up the book again. To my readers here and everyone visiting the exhibition I wish a joyful and successful year ahead.
How to visit:
All the exhibition details available at:
https://www.nact.jp/english/exhibition_public/ (English), venue 2A
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