Czech artist Josef Lada, known for his illustrations, painting, and writing, will have his works featured in Japan starting in April 2024, with a traveling exhibition entitled 'Josef Lada - Father of Czech Illustration' set to visit multiple cities. The exhibition opens at the city museum in Itami near Osaka and will conclude in Tokyo in 2027, as confirmed by Lada's great-grandson, Viktor Lada, representing the family company JosefLada.cz.

The exhibition will showcase a comprehensive selection of around 200 original artworks, including both illustrations and free creative works. Historical publications, such as the first editions of Lada's illustrated books and periodicals, will also be part of the exhibition, offering attendees a unique glimpse into the artist’s legacy. Viktor Lada highlighted that the project aims to present the artist's poetic depictions of Czech rural life, winter landscapes, and children's stories, all of which have become iconic elements of Czech culture.

Key pieces in the exhibition will include those familiar to international audiences, particularly Lada's illustrations for the well-known novel 'The Good Soldier Švejk' and stories featuring the cat Mikeš, which have garnered attention beyond Czech borders. This initiative not only celebrates Lada's enduring influence on Czech art and literature but also fosters cultural exchange between Czechia and Japan, marking a significant moment in promoting Czech heritage abroad.