The recent donation by Víctor Pasamar Gracia to the Zaragoza Museum marks a significant milestone in the representation of women artists in Japanese graphic art. With this contribution, the museum not only enriches its collection but also strengthens its position as a European leader in showcasing works by Japanese female artists.
A donation that celebrates female art
Pasamar’s donation, formalized in March, includes 18 works by women artists, consisting of fourteen prints, three photographs, and one ceramic piece. These works stand out for their woodblock printing technique, a Japanese tradition brought to life through the hands of authors such as Uemura Shōen, Mizuno Hidekata, and Iida Shikō, among others. The collection also features works by the renowned Kusama Yayoi and photographer Kawauchi Rinko.
The inclusion of these works in the Zaragoza Museum not only expands the institution’s artistic heritage but also underscores the importance of highlighting female talent in art, coinciding with the demands of International Women’s Day.
Víctor Pasamar and his commitment to equality
Víctor Pasamar Gracia, a collector from Zaragoza, has been a fundamental pillar in promoting Japanese graphic art in Spain. His collection, known as the ‘Pasamar-Onila Collection’, is one of the most important in the country, spanning from the 17th to the 20th century. This collection includes genres such as bijin-ga, landscapes, and shunga, rescuing numerous female artists from oblivion.
With this second donation, Pasamar has increased the number of works by 34 female Japanese artists in the museum to 48, solidifying his commitment to gender equality and honoring the memory of Marian Emil Onila.
Fruitful collaboration with the Zaragoza Museum
Since 2018, the collaboration between Pasamar and the Zaragoza Museum has been prolific. The donated works have been part of exhibitions such as ‘The Elegance of Tradition’ and ‘Kimono. Silk Skin’, attracting thousands of visitors. In 2025, the exhibition ‘Treasures. Collections of Asian Art’ saw participation from 98,943 people, evidencing the cultural impact of these initiatives.
Pasamar’s efforts are not limited to donating works; they also include guided tours and advisory services on acquisitions, aligned with the museum’s policies. This joint effort has allowed the Zaragoza Museum to stand out as an institution committed to diversity and inclusion in the art world.
