KAZARI: The Impulse to Decorate in Japan
Saturday 24 May to Sunday 13 July 2008

The urge to decorate has been a constant source for Japanese culture from the Jomon period to the present day. This exhibition takes the novel approach of looking at many different aspects of decoration, from the solemn decorations created as offerings to the gods or to Buddha, to decorations for formal rooms in medieval Japan, whimsical elements in the armor of the warlords, and women's apparel of modern times. Also included are decorations fabricated for festivals, and the gorgeous costumes produced for Noh, Kyogen, and Kabuki theater.

Kosode: Haute Couture Kimonos of the Edo Period -Premiere Showing of the Matsuzakaya Kimono Museum Masterpieces
Saturday 26 July to Sunday 21 September 2008

The kosode, considered to be the prototype of today's kimono, was the starting point for a number of fashion trends in the Edo period. A wide variety of designs conceived for different seasons and situations is presented, including items from Matsuzakya Kimono Museum that are displayed in public for the first time.

Picasso(proposed title)
Saturday 4 Octrber to Sunday 14 December 2008

The collection of the Musée National Picasso Paris will make a world tour in 2008-09. In Tokyo, parts of the collection will be exhibited simultaneously at two venues, the National Art Center, Tokyo and the Suntory Museum of Art. The Suntory Museum of Art will be showing about 70 works that demonstrate the emergence of Picasso's unique talent, providing a wonderful opportunity to delve into the depths of this master of art.

Export Lacquer : Reflection of the West in Black and Gold Makie
Tuesday(holiday)23 December 2008 to Monday 26 January 2009

Maki-e, a traditional form of Japanese urushi lacquerware crossed to Europe, where the technique became known as "japanning." This is the first exhibition to present an extensive overview of the maki-e work exported from Japan, with the principal exhibits being some of the masterpieces that seduced Marie Antoinette and other European royals and nobles.