Key Facts
• Special exhibition ‘Naoto Kitamura: Empty Yet Full’ runs until September 28, 2025.
• Features 45 works by Naoto Kitamura, known for animal-themed paintings.
• Kitamura, 45, from Oita City, began painting professionally in 2004.
• His unique acrylic techniques gained recognition in 2006 at the Oita City Art Exhibition.
• Kitamura’s work was featured in the 2014 TV drama ‘Hirugao,’ boosting his popularity.
• His YouTube channel has over 220,000 subscribers as of 2025.
• Live painting event on July 25, 2025, attracted 150 attendees.
• Exhibition held at Masuda Art Museum, Yukuhashi City, Fukuoka.
• Admission: ¥500 for adults, ¥300 for high school/university students, free for children.
• Museum hours: 10 AM–5 PM, closed Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday).
Summary
The Masuda Art Museum in Yukuhashi City, Fukuoka, is hosting a special exhibition titled ‘Naoto Kitamura: Empty Yet Full,’ showcasing 45 works by the renowned painter Naoto Kitamura. Known for his animal-themed paintings, Kitamura transitioned to art in 2004 after pursuing a soccer career. His unique acrylic techniques earned him recognition in 2006, and his work gained nationwide fame after being featured in the 2014 TV drama ‘Hirugao.’ The exhibition, running until September 28, 2025, includes a live painting event where Kitamura demonstrated his skills to an audience of 150. The museum is open daily except Mondays, with admission fees ranging from ¥300 to ¥500, while children can enter for free.
