The bustling walkway linking Shibuya Station to the Shibuya Mark City building may seem an unlikely location for art appreciation given the constant flow of commuters. Yet, this corridor boasts one of Tokyo's most treasured contemporary art pieces: Taro Okamoto's ‘Myth of Tomorrow’. Okamoto, famed for creations like the whimsical ‘Tower of the Sun’ at the Expo '70 Commemorative Park in Osaka, embedded profound meaning in this vibrant mural.
While 'Myth of Tomorrow' is captivating with its vivid hues, this large-scale artwork chillingly portrays the detonation of an atomic bomb. Rather than simply memorialising the tragic event, Okamoto's mural emphasises the resilience of the human spirit. It underscores humanity's capacity to confront immense adversities and pave the way for a brighter, optimistic future.
Previously believed to be lost, this masterpiece was unexpectedly found in a suburb of Mexico in 2003. It was then transported to Japan and underwent an extensive restoration. Revived to its pristine state by 2006, the mural graced various Tokyo locales before settling at its present home in Shibuya in 2008.
Now that 17 years have passed since its last restoration, the invaluable mural begins to exhibit wear and tear beyond initial expectations. This calls for immediate comprehensive maintenance to preserve it for future generations.
The extensive restoration and repair work are slated to commence on October 10 this year and will span several years. This year marks the first phase, with approximately 40 days dedicated to repairing cracks, peeling, discolouration, and improving the environment behind the mural. The elaborate work involving scaffolding across the entire work area is unprecedented.
To involve the community in this noble project, a crowdfunding campaign was launched on September 22. The meticulous restoration will be conducted progressively. A few sections will be attended to each year to bring back the mural’s original glory and ensure its longevity.
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