Light — sunlight, moonlight, starlight, even artificial indoor lighting — is often one of the most important elements of an artist's work. Since the energy-saving concerns raised by the Fukushima No.1 nuclear power plant disaster, our general awareness and appreciation of light has been also heightened.

"La Blonde au Gilet Bleu" (1922) by Pierre Bonnard MENARD ART MUSEUM

This exhibition focuses on the use, depiction and interpretation of light through some 70 examples of Western paintings, nihonga (Japanese-style painting) and craft pieces. It includes "La Blonde au Gilet Bleu" (1922) by Pierre Bonnard, which is being shown in Japan for the first time; Jan. 2-April 1.