Psychiatrist Ryutaro Takahashi is regarded as one of the most important collectors of contemporary art in Japan today. It all began in 1997 when he visited an exhibition of the artist Yayoi Kusama in Tokyo, where works from her Net Paintings series captured his eye in particular. Since then, Takahashi has concentrated on collecting works mainly by contemporary Japanese artists—in addition to Yayoi Kusama this includes Yoshitomo Nara, Makoto Aida, and Kohei Nawa, amongst others.

He now owns more than 2,000 works, and has exhibited as "Takahashi Collection" at over 20 public museums. A selection of works are installed in his private studio and also at his clinic in Tokyo. Takahashi says that patients show great interest in the works and ask questions—especially when the hanging is changed. The collection has no permanent exhibition space yet, but can occasionally be exhibited at museums, with details on their website. Preparations for a collection space are under way, with a schedule to be confirmed.

Images courtesy Takahashi Ryutaro Collection

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