#Japan #Tokyo #Peace #√K Contemporary #Being

Exploring The Memories of War Through Art: 'Being - PEACE is a Verb -'

On August 15, 2025, √K Contemporary in Kagurazaka will host the exhibit 'Being - PEACE is a Verb -,' marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. This exhibition serves as the second installment in the ongoing series, 'Being,' and aims to confront the dwindling memories of war as time passes. With war's recollections becoming increasingly subconscious and distant, the exhibit poses crucial questions about the nature of conflict and peace in contemporary society.

The exhibition invites both late authors who lived through the wars and young, emerging artists who have not known direct war experiences to share their perspectives through their art. These young artists, born and raised in a time of peace, are given the unique opportunity to reflect on themes such as war, defeat, and peace from fresh and insightful angles. This collection encourages a shift from merely 'praying' for peace to 'creating' it, aiming to inspire attendees to engage with the much-needed discourse about our future society.

The opening performance features artist Rin Nakanishi's interactive piece, 'Sculpture Should Be Eaten.' Attendees will partake in the experience by consuming the edible artworks, thus blurring the traditional boundaries between art, consumption, and audience participation. Furthermore, throughout the exhibition, various talk events will be held to deepen discussions surrounding the themes presented.

Context of the Exhibition

The push to look back on the lessons learned from conflict is more crucial than ever. Japan, having experienced the ramifications of war firsthand, now faces the challenge of educating newer generations distanced from those events. The exhibition, 'PEACE is a Verb,' engages this context by addressing not only a historical retrospective but also a contemporary engagement. In a society familiar with technology and individualistic art expressions, war often finds itself intermingling subtly within our lives, prompting a reconsideration of its actual presence.

Modern viewers of the historic wars might feel disconnected, viewing narratives of conflict as stories meant for others. The exhibition demonstrates that the interpretations offered by younger generations provide an opportunity to reframe war, not just as a past occurrence, but as a relevant issue closely tied to our present discourse. As we recognize ourselves as stakeholders regarding the peace of our times, we learn to acknowledge our role in shaping the future.

About √K Contemporary

Founded in 2020, √K Contemporary is an art gallery in Shinjuku, Tokyo, focused on breaking boundaries across genres, generations, and cultures. The gallery engages with both traditional and modern artwork, seeking to preserve and propagate artistic endeavors throughout history. Through exhibitions, √K Contemporary aims to inspire innovative thought while creating a new art scene that resonates with audiences and contributes to cultural discourse.

Each installment of the 'Being' series aims to challenge prevailing norms by revisiting past stories through artistic expression. The first exhibition, 'Mom is a Woman,' showcased around 20 women artists, setting a precedent for exploring crucial themes relevant to contemporary society.

The overarching vision behind the exhibition title, 'Being,' encompasses the belief that our existence directly influences the future. Artistic expressions reflect not only the thoughts and feelings of today but also serve as vessels for potential transformation. Hence, 'Being - PEACE is a Verb -' acts as both a celebration and a pivotal moment for all attendees to reconsider their roles in fostering peace moving forward.

Potential participants in upcoming discussions and performances are encouraged to stay tuned for more updates, ensuring they do not miss out on this vibrant dialogue. This exhibition stands as an invitation for everyone to reflect on their relationship with peace and to consider how they might actively shape it within their lives and communities.

For additional details regarding exhibition schedules, visiting hours, and future events, please visit the √K Contemporary website: √K Contemporary.