The exhibition features swords and related accessories from the museum collection. The swords will be displayed in sets of "koshirae," all of which are noted for its intricate decorations created by artisans. [Image: Katsuyoshi Shoami "Sword Set with Butterfly Motif and Lacquered Blade" 37.7cm length, photography by Sumiharu Tawara]

[Image: Kozue Hibino ]

The exhibition features artwork from ancient Greece. These works portray the philosophical exploration of Greek minds and their investigation of nature's works. *Exhibiting at exhibition rooms 1 & 2 Art Talk: April 25th (Fri), May 26th (Mon) 13:30- [Image: "Red vase of Patera" 35.2x35.2cm]

This exhibition features the selected pieces from various textiles that folk textile researcher Hiroko Iwatate collected throughout his travels. Outfits, blankets and rugs have original colors, shapes and patterns that are derived from Indian daily life. They also utilize amazing techniques such as embroidery patchworks. Dye Workshop: April 19th (Sat) 13:00-16:00, May 11th (Sun) 10:00-12:00, 18th (Sun) 10:00-12:00, 13:00-15:00 Embroidery Workshop: June 22nd (Sun) 13:00-16:00 *For more information, visit URL below. [Image: Skirt from Rajasthan State, India (Iwatate Collection)]

This exhibition features the changes in Japanese people's lifestyle that were brought by the influences of foreign countries. *Exhibiting at 1F Exhibition Room 3

During the Edo period (when Japan had an isolationist policy), Japan did in fact have contact with foreign countries. This exhibition will display telescopes, glass works, clocks and other items that have adopted foreign influences. *Exhibiting at 1F Exhibition Room 1 [Image: "Japanese Telescopes from the 18th Century and After"]

This permanent exhibition features a selection of the Meiji period's most sophisticated works when makie lacquerware, cloisonne, metal work and kyo satsuma experienced the peak of artistic skills and values. Most of the works were created by the Emperors' artists, and have been found in other countries. Works on display are rearranged on a continuous basis to allow visitors to see different works throughout the year.

*Exhibiting at Kitaoji Rosanjin Exhibition Room

Bruno Munari (1907-1998) was an Italian designer active in a range of fields, from painting to product design, art education, graphics and sculpture, who left behind a oeuvre unique, dream-like and overflowing in humor. To mark the centenary of Munari's birth, this exhibition, starting from the task of a "book" taking on his life, will comprehensively introduce his colorful career. Focusing on his early publications, it is composed of over three hundred works of picture book manuscripts, paintings, sculptures, sketches and films. Munari's work is filled with a child-like curiosity, ideas free and lithe, a rich creativity, and a warming perspective on humanity and nature. It is said to be a treasure forever continuing to glitter in our hearts. Colorful, brimming with the surprises of dreams, both adults and children can enjoy being in the enchanting fantasia of Munari's world. Children's Workshop "Make a Picture Book": June 15th (Sun) 13:00-15:30 Reservation required ¥300 *For more information, visit the URL below. Children's Workshop "Make a Card": June 28th (Sat) 13:30-16:00 Reservation required *For more information, visit the URL below. Lecture: June 8th (Sun) 13:30- The Museum of Modern Art Shiga Fine Arts Faculty Member *At Lecture Hall