National Museum of Art, Osaka launches KoreNaka collaboration

The National Museum of Art, Osaka and the Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art have launched a new collaborative initiative called ‘KoreNaka’ (Collections in Nakanoshima NMAO–NAKKA). The project aims to enhance the cultural appeal of the Nakanoshima area and promote regional revitalization by leveraging the specialized collections and expertise of both institutions.

The first phase of this partnership features the works of Atsuko Tanaka, a prominent figure in the post-war Gutai Art Association. As part of the National Museum of Art, Osaka’s 50th-anniversary pre-exhibition, ‘Collection 1: I / Act’ (running from July 19 to November 3, 2026), eight drawings from the Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art’s collection are being displayed alongside the National Museum of Art, Osaka’s own holdings, including the major work ‘Hell’s Gate’.

This exhibition allows viewers to trace the creative evolution of Tanaka, whose work often utilized light bulbs and electric cords. Future planned activities for the collaboration include an exhibition of sculptures and video works from the National Museum of Art, Osaka at the Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art in late 2026, as well as a symposium on museum collection formation.