Nambata Fumio (1941-1974) produced a large number of wonderful works notable for their delicate lines and coloring. His watercolors, drawings, and his vivid life left a firm impression on postwar art in Japan. Born the second son of Nambata Tatsuoki, one of the pioneers of abstract painting in Japan, Fumio displayed an exceptional natural talent as a young man, but did not take to the established art education of his day. Driven by a love for literature and music, he worked on his own, seeking an original approach for his art. Through self-introspection and sincerely facing up to the realities of contemporary society, Fumio created works on paper that freshly convey his characteristically delicate, but at the same time lucid sensitivity. Although his productive period spanned only 15 years, he created a startling number of works. Despite his reputation as a painter who died prematurely, his artistic skills were already sufficiently advanced and developed. His form of expression, which was rich and diverse, will surely continue to enchant us well into the future.

Nambata Fumio and his father Nambata Tatsuoki are the main artists featured in Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery's Terada Collection, which holds over 280 works by Fumio. This exhibition highlights the diverse themes and interests that gave direction to Nambata Fumio's work and traces his life, presenting some 120 works carefully selected from the Terada Collection, as well as about 120 items from other art museums and personal collections. These are complemented by the artist's diaries, sketchbooks, photographs, and other items associated with him to give a multi-faceted introduction to the enchanting work of Nambata Fumio.

Untitled
1971
watercolor, ink on paper
Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery
photo: SAITO Arata

Untitled
1970
watercolor, ink on paper
Setagaya Art Museum