#Japan #Tokyo #SIGNING #SIGNAL #Speculative Music

Exploring Speculative Music: A Unique Art Exhibition

Starting December 11, 2023, the social issue gallery "SIGNAL" in Toranomon, Tokyo, will host the exhibition "Speculative Music," curated by the talented Yoji Sakuma. This exhibition marks the 15th installment in the Signature Exhibition series produced by SIGNING, a company based in Tokyo's Minato City.

Background of the Exhibition

In an era dominated by short videos and instant stimuli, contemporary art faces the challenge of maintaining its impact on youth and the broader public. While modern art struggles to connect with the masses, internet musicians continue to thrive, proving their relevance and influence in today’s society. This exhibition aims to explore how art can drive behavioral change in society through innovative entertainment. By collaborating with the creative forces of internet musicians, "Speculative Music" seeks to redefine the value of art in addressing social issues.

Following the success of previous exhibitions such as "Expanded Music" and "Music Together," which attracted over 5,000 visitors combined, the current exhibition will feature new works that promote positive social change through speculative art. This movement will now take place at the SOCIAL ISSUE GALLERY "SIGNAL" in Tokyo, offering audiences a fresh perspective on artistic expression.

Exhibition Details

The exhibition will run from December 11, 2023, until February 21, 2024, featuring a unique structure where the artworks will change monthly. This allows the presentation to evolve and engage visitors continuously, inspiring them to contribute to a better future.

• - First Phase: December 11 (Thu) to December 27 (Sat)
• - Second Phase: January 9 (Fri) to January 31 (Sat)
• - Third Phase: February 4 (Wed) to February 21 (Sat)

Visitors can enjoy the gallery for free, making it accessible to everyone.

• - Opening Hours:

- Tuesday: 10 AM - 8 PM (Gallery Only)
- Wednesday to Friday: 11 AM - 11 PM (Cafe & Gallery)
- Saturday: 11 AM - 6 PM (Cafe & Gallery)
- Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Public Holidays

Located at 1-2-11 Toranomon, Minato City, the gallery can be reached within a 5 to 3-minute walk from nearby subway stations.

About the Curator

Yoji Sakuma is a prominent figure in the arts and culture sector. He serves as a special researcher at Osaka University's Social Solution Initiative and is a director at the 2025 Osaka Expo pavilion. Sakuma also oversees the Shape New World Initiative, and has held key roles in various projects highlighting future society design and virtual beings both academically and practically.

Recognized for his contributions, Sakuma received the 2022 Minister of Education and Science Award for the Japan Open Innovation Awards and has been featured in Forbes Japan's 30 Under 30 list in 2023. His work focuses on merging social issues with contemporary art to provide meaningful experiences that evoke change.

Features of SIGNAL

The SOCIAL ISSUE GALLERY "SIGNAL" is unique as it encourages visitors to engage with social issues through their experiences and interactions with the exhibited art. As attendees view art that addresses pressing societal problems, they are invited to share their thoughts through questionnaires, contributing to a collective that can influence future projects and ideas that tackle these issues.

SIGNING's commitment to addressing both business challenges and societal issues positions it as a leader in social design and innovative thinking. By focusing on social good, the gallery emphasizes the importance of art in driving change and fostering a more interconnected society.

To remain updated on future exhibitions, including upcoming shows by artists like Tetsuro Kano and Makoto Egashira in 2026, keep an eye on the official website and social media channels.

The "Speculative Music" exhibition invites all to explore the intersection of art and social change. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness how music and creativity can illuminate crucial societal conversations.

For more details, visit SIGNING's website or follow their Instagram.