Activities in the United States

When Inokuma moved to New York in 1955, his painting style dramatically shifted from figurative to abstract. He was represented by the Willard Gallery, where he had 10 solo exhibitions and continuously presented ambitious new work. During his approximately 20 years in New York, he played a key role in Japan-US cultural exchange in both the public and private spheres. He formed connections with leading artists in various disciplines, and hosted many gatherings at his home. At a time when overseas travel was still uncommon among the Japanese populace, many travelers from Japan to New York, from politicians and business leaders to ordinary tourists, sought out Mr. and Ms. Inokuma through word of mouth. Showing generous hospitality even to first-time guests, the couple became known as “civilian ambassadors.”

Examples of public contributions

1956
Oversaw interior decoration for Japan Airlines New York branch (interior by Junzo Yoshimura).

1957
Appointed board member of the America-Japan Society, cultural exchange advisor to the Consulate-General of Japan in New York, and cultural exchange advisor to the Japan External Trade Organization.

1958
Painted a mural for the Takashimaya Department Store New York branch (architectural design by Junzo Yoshimura).

1959
Oversaw the display for the Rosanjin exhibition at the Japan House Gallery, New York. The poster was by Shiko Munakata, who was visiting the US at the time. Munakata also held a solo exhibition at the Willard Gallery, with Ms. Inokuma assisting with installation. Inokuma designed the tea room and garden display gifted to the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston by the Urasenke school of tea ceremony, commemorating the formation of a sister-city affiliation between Kyoto and Boston.

1960
Designed the catalogue for the USA-Japan Centennial Year celebration.