Located on Naoshima Island in Japan the Lee Ufan Museum photographed by Dan Preston is an architectural marvel and a tribute to the minimalist movement of the 1970s.
Designed by Tadao Ando in collaboration with the artist Lee Ufan, the museum is a semi-subterranean structure that blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Comprising of three rectangular rooms, a triangular forecourt, and parallel walls that form the only elevation of the museum, the approach path to the building is a journey in itself.
Upon entering the museum, visitors are immediately struck by the different qualities of materiality, light, and scale in response to the artwork exhibited in each of the rooms. The subterranean spaces were designed according to the preferences of the artist, resulting in a seamless integration of art and architecture. The museum is the first to be dedicated to Lee Ufan's oeuvre, spanning a period from the 1970s to the present day, and has become a landmark on Naoshima Island.
Located in a tranquil valley surrounded by hills and the ocean, the Lee Ufan Museum offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of modern society. The interplay between nature, architecture, and art invites visitors to engage in peaceful and quiet contemplation. A contextual shoot showcasing the interconnection with the unusual and sculptural environment helps visitors to understand the inspiration behind the museum's design. This museum is a testament to the power of collaboration between artists and architects and a celebration of the minimalist movement.
