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Minebane: The Taguchi Art Collection Exhibit

Dive into the vibrant world of contemporary art this summer, as the Taguchi Art Collection presents its latest exhibition, "Minebane! Contemporary Art Taguchi Art Collection." This extensive event will take place from July 19 to September 7, 2025, at both the Akita Prefectural Museum of Art and the Akita City Chuo Museum of Art. With a mission to broaden art appreciation among children and create enriching experiences around art, the collection is stepping up its activities across various venues in Akita City.

A Window to the World of Contemporary Art

The Taguchi Art Collection has always aimed to provide access to contemporary art for local communities and the next generation, particularly in areas where such opportunities are limited. It facilitates exhibitions and delivers artworks to schools through its unique "delivered exhibition" initiative, bringing global artistic talent directly to those who might otherwise miss out.

In what promises to be the largest exhibition of its kind, the Taguchi Art Collection will feature workshops led by participating artists, guided tours for elementary school students, and art installations throughout the city, seeking to engage a wide audience from young children to adults. These initiatives promote dialogue, collaboration, and interaction, fostering each participant's awareness of their surroundings and helping them discover new perspectives and connections with society.

About the Taguchi Art Collection

Founded by Hiroshi Taguchi and his daughter Miwa from the Misumi Group, the Taguchi Art Collection boasts approximately 750 works of contemporary art, collected from various regions worldwide as of March 2025. Rather than having a fixed exhibition space, the collection aims to maximize art accessibility in regions outside of the metropolitan areas through a program of lending and exhibitions. The Art Plus Contemporary Art Institute, a general incorporated association, has been established to oversee and promote the collection, resulting in over ten exhibitions at various museums across Japan, along with the development of art cards and mini-exhibitions at schools.

Engaging Art Workshops

The exhibition will include a series of engaging workshops where participants can enjoy and learn from the artists. Some notable workshops include:

• - Kazuki Sakamoto's Workshop: My Green

Scheduled for July 20, this session invites middle and high school students to explore the concept of color in nature, using leaves and other natural materials as inspiration for their canvas art.

• - Tomoko Sawada's Workshop: Who Am I?

On July 25, participants will create self-portraits based on introspective questions, guided by the artist herself, suitable for anyone from third graders to adults.

• - Satoru Aoyama's Brooch Making Workshop

Held on August 11, students from elementary to high school can craft unique brooches inspired by the theme of creation and communication.

• - Teppei Kaneuji's Collage Workshop

On August 15, elementary school students are invited to create collages inspired by urban environments, bringing forth creativity and adventure.

Special Tour for Elementary Students

A special "Elementary Student Appreciation Tour" will occur on July 25, offering a playful way for students to engage with contemporary art through fun questioning games. This tour is free and aims to encourage youngsters to express their thoughts and feelings regarding the art they encounter.

Talk Events to Enhance the Experience

The exhibition will also host several talk events featuring art professionals and participating artists, with insights into their work and creative processes, enhancing the visitor experience. Admission to these events is free with tickets to the exhibition.

Artistic Community Engagement

In a bid to broaden participation and engagement, the exhibition will host a projection mapping show featuring Teppei Kaneuji's work during the summer holidays at the Akita Prefectural Museum's outdoor entrance area on August 15 and 16, inviting everyone to enjoy the intersection of technology and art.

The exhibition will also incorporate an interactive element with art installations at ten locations throughout Akita City, offering visitors a charming scavenger hunt experience as they discover Kaneuji's art scattered throughout urban spaces.

Getting Involved

For those interested in engaging more deeply with contemporary art, a limited edition art card game called "PLAY! TaguKole" will be available throughout the city, allowing players to explore and interact with artworks in new and fun ways.

Exhibition Title: Minebane! Contemporary Art Taguchi Art Collection
Exhibition Dates: July 19 - September 7, 2025, open daily
Exhibition Venues: Akita Prefectural Museum of Art, Akita City Chuo Museum of Art
Entry Fee: General Admission: 1,500 JPY (1,200 JPY on advance); University Student: 1,000 JPY (800 JPY in advance); Free for High School Students and Younger.
For ticket inquiries and more information about events and programs, please visit the Taguchi Art Collection's website or contact the Arts Plus Contemporary Art Institute.