After enjoying an art exhibition, it’s always fun to visit the museum shop while still riding the emotional high from the show! After indulging in the magical world of imaginary travel, why not take home a few souvenirs to commemorate the journey?
This time, I brought back a few snapshots from my imaginary travels with Little Hat Man.
Carry the Journey with Little Hat Man in Your Hands
First and foremost, you’ll want to pick up the exhibition catalog. Memories can be fleeting and fragile, no matter how deeply moved you are. Over time, those vivid recollections will inevitably fade.
This catalog is structured much like a children's book or an encyclopedia, with chapters and introductions, making it accessible even for those who aren’t used to art books. It’s laid out in a way that anyone can enjoy, much like browsing a picture book
Having a catalog that can vividly stir the emotions you felt during the exhibition means you can go on an imaginary journey whenever you like. How wonderful is that?
The cover isn’t a typical full-cover design but instead uses the actual book’s surface cleverly, adding a stylish touch that delighted me. I don’t usually remove book covers, but this design made me think there may be other surprises waiting in other catalogs, too.
Snapshots on Paper
If there’s a particular artwork that resonated with you, you might want to take it home as a reminder. I bought postcards and clear files of my favorite pieces.
The monochrome Untitled features familiar objects reimagined in various ways, and every time I look at it, I notice something new. What could Little Hat Man be pondering as he gazes at them? In the purple Tightrope Walker, I wonder what lies in the balance between equilibrium and imbalance. And where is Ascent headed—toward brightness, or some undefined destination? Is it truly aiming for where it wants to go?
The arrows atop the heads of those in Untitled—do they represent divergent thoughts? In A Letter to You from a Faraway Country, the typewriter keys floating in the night sky—are they sending their words to "you"?
One of the great things about paper goods is that you can revisit them whenever you like, letting the piece evoke different feelings depending on your mood.
There were also casual items like T-shirts, snacks, and other small trinkets, making it easy to find something fun to take home.
The Museum Shop: TRAINIART at Tokyo Station Gallery
Just outside the exhibition hall, follow the signs and take a left to reach the shop.
As you walk, you’ll pass a diorama of Tokyo Station’s history and its transformations from its opening to the present day. After enjoying this little history lesson, you’ll find yourself at the shop.
In one corner of the permanent store, there’s a section dedicated to goods from the special exhibition. Though compact, the items are beautifully displayed, making it easy and enjoyable to browse.
Tokyo Station, the gateway to countless journeys in the Kanto region, offers the perfect spot to pick up a memento from your imaginary travels before heading home.
