Ichihara Arinori was an outstanding printmaker whom Otaru boasts. He passed away in October last year at the age of 100.
To commemorate Mr. Ichihara’s glorious achievement, his permanent gallery was open on the 3rd floor of Otaru Museum of Art on April 2.
He started his career as a printmaker when he was 50 years old. Though a late starter, he produced numerous pieces of work during his lifetime, and his works that can be categorized contemporary are full of youthfulness of spirit.
He was also a mountain climber and a Haiku poet on amateur basis.
The exhibition featuring his mountain climbing and his Haiku is also being held at Otaru Literature Museum that is in the same building of Museum of Art.
Coincidentally, the Museum building used to be Postal Saving Bureau that Mr. Ichihara worked for.
Please do visit his gallery, and enjoy Mr. Ichihara’s amazing world if you ever come to Otaru.
The foyer of Ichihara Arinori Memorial Gallery
Part of the leaflet showing Mr.Ichihara's image and works
The museum building was originally built as Postal Saving Bureau in 1950s.
Classic faucets like in the image still remain in the bathrooms.
