Born in Okayama Prefecture, Denchu Hirakushi (1872-1979) developed his interest in figurative art when he was 17. He then moved to Osaka and Nara to practice his skills before finally setting his foot in Tokyo at the age of 25. Shortly after, he acquainted himself with a Zen Buddhist named Kasan Nishiyama and the renowned Meiji Era scholar Tenshin Okakura — two people Hirakushi admired and whose ideology he followed. Hirakushi's style is often characterized by its profound spirituality and pursuit of realism. This exhibition will showcase 80 of his most outstanding works; till Dec. 9.

Mie Prefectural Art Museum; (059) 227-2100; 11 Otani-cho, Tsu-shi, Mie; Tsu Station, JR Line. 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. ¥900. Closed Mon. www.bunka.pref.mie.lg.jp/art-museum/en/.