Yokohama Museum Of Art - Yokohama

The Yokohama Triennale is one of the most significant art events in Japan and brings together artists from around the world. The triennale has a fascinating history, and this year's theme of everyday oblivions promises to be just as exciting as previous years. This article takes a closer look at the Yokohama Triennale and what visitors can expect from this unique event.

Every three years, the Yokohama Triennale showcases cutting-edge contemporary art from both established and emerging artists from around the world. The Triennale takes place across various locations in Yokohama, including the Yokohama Museum of Art, the NYK Maritime Museum, and the BankART Studio NYK.

The theme for the 2021 Yokohama Triennale is Everyday Oblivions, and it aims to explore "what remains buried in the everyday, including oblivions that we are not yet aware of or that we have not yet faced." The idea behind the theme is to encourage visitors to look at the world around them in a new light and question aspects of daily life that may have become routine or unnoticed.

The Triennale includes a varied program of exhibitions, performances, and talks by artists and curators. Alongside the main program, there are also fringe events and satellite exhibitions taking place across Yokohama. These exhibitions provide an opportunity for visitors to explore the city and discover new artists and perspectives.

The Yokohama Triennale first took place in 2001 and was established as part of efforts to revitalize the city. Since then, the Triennale has become an integral part of Yokohama's art scene, attracting visitors from around the world. The Yokohama Museum of Art, which plays a key role in the Triennale, opened in 1989 and has a significant collection of modern and contemporary art.

One of the highlights of this year's Yokohama Triennale is the Japanese artist Shuji Akagi's installation Ad Me, which explores the relationship between machines and humans. The installation features a robot that creates paintings inspired by the movements of visitors in the gallery space.

Another artist to watch at the Yokohama Triennale is the American artist Tony Cokes, whose work examines the role of media in shaping our understanding of culture and politics. Cokes' work blurs the line between art and activism and highlights the power of media to influence our perception of the world.

The Yokohama Triennale is also an opportunity to discover emerging artists who are pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. One such artist is the South Korean artist Lee Bul, whose work often explores themes of identity, gender, and the body. Lee's work has been exhibited in major museums around the world and has received critical acclaim.

The Yokohama Triennale is not just about showcasing contemporary art, but also about encouraging engagement with the wider community. There are various educational programs and workshops aimed at students and families, providing an opportunity for visitors to learn more about contemporary art and engage with the art on display.

For those wanting to explore Yokohama further, there are several must-see sites and attractions. The Yokohama Landmark Tower is the second tallest building in Japan and boasts panoramic views of the city. The Yokohama Chinatown is the largest in Japan and offers a range of Chinese cuisine and souvenirs.

The history of Yokohama is also fascinating and highlights the city's global heritage. Yokohama was one of the first ports in Japan to open up to foreign trade in the 19th century, and as a result, the city has a rich history of international exchange and cultural influences.

To understand more about Yokohama's history, visitors can head to the Yokohama History Museum. The museum showcases the city's development from a small fishing village to a bustling port town. Visitors can also learn more about the impact of the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, which devastated the city but also led to a period of reconstruction and growth.

The Yokohama Triennale is a unique event that brings together artists from around the world to explore contemporary issues and push the boundaries of art. The 2021 theme of everyday oblivions promises to be both thought-provoking and engaging, and visitors to Yokohama should not miss the opportunity to experience this exciting event.

FAQs

When does the Yokohama Triennale take place?

The Yokohama Triennale takes place every three years. The 2017 festival was held from August 4 to November 5. The dates for the next edition are yet to be announced.

Where does the Yokohama Triennale take place?

The Yokohama Triennale takes place across various locations in Yokohama, including the Yokohama Museum of Art, the NYK Maritime Museum, and the BankART Studio NYK.

Read Also

What is the theme of the 2021 Yokohama Triennale?

The theme of the 2021 Yokohama Triennale is Everyday Oblivions and aims to explore "what remains buried in the everyday, including oblivions that we are not yet aware of or that we have not yet faced."