An older man is dressed in a white scarf and a blue coat, in his hand is a smoking pipe.
Azechi Umetarō, Old Man in a Mountain Hut [detail], 1953, woodblock print, ink and color on paper, Gift of Sue Y.S. Kimm and Seymour Grufferman 2019.78.62

Azechi Umetarō: Call of the Mountains

Azechi Umetarō: Call of the Mountains

April 22, 2023 - January 21, 2024
Gallery 226, 227
Free Exhibition

Azechi Umetarō (1902–1999) loved the mountains. His earliest memory of climbing was as a child, when he hiked a large hill near his house; upon reaching the top, he was astounded by even taller landmasses looming in the distance. As he grew older, he often hiked mid-sized mountains alone; they gave him an opportunity to meditate on life. The simplified figures of the bearded mountain men (yama-otoko), who reappear throughout his work, embody his love and appreciation for the environment. This exhibition features prints given to Mia from the extensive collection of Sue Y. S. Kimm and Seymour Grufferman.

Azechi Umetarō, Old Man in a Mountain Hut [detail], 1953, woodblock print, ink and color on paper, Gift of Sue Y.S. Kimm and Seymour Grufferman 2019.78.62