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Tokyo Photographic Art Museum Exhibition: Assembling Anew

The Tokyo Photographic Art Museum is presenting a captivating exhibition titled 'Assembling Anew: Memories, Materials, Context, Technology', running from September 30, 2026 to January 17, 2027. This marks the 23rd installment of the 'Contemporary Japanese Photography' series, aimed at supporting creative spirits that challenge the potential of photography and visual media while discovering promising artists.

This exhibition features five contemporary artists: Sayuri Ichida, Taro Karibe, Zai Nomura, Baku Hashimoto, and Asako Fujikura, who employ various innovative techniques and materials, including AI, CG, stop-motion animation, and unique shooting and editing methods. Their works aim to reconstruct individual experiences and thoughts into new visual images, inviting viewers to explore the boundaries between existence and absence, reality and illusion.

Thematic Focus

Photography and video serve as media to capture and preserve moments. However, the meanings of the images can transform based on editing and contextual placements, sometimes evoking memories or records that never existed.

As visitors engage with the works, they will be prompted to reflect on their encounters with information in today’s world—what to believe, and how to interpret the complex layers of reality. Each artist presents a perspective that sheds light on this contemporary dilemma, utilizing their unique backgrounds and technologies.

Featured Artists

1. Sayuri Ichida focuses on the concept of time accumulated in schools. Her installation involves restructuring fragments of school buildings printed on silkscreen, which will see its first display in Japan.
2. Taro Karibe merges contemporary themes with psychological inquiry through AI-generated images. He distorts image recognition systems to explore human sensibility and the nature of belief.
3. Zai Nomura examines the relationship between existence and memory using diverse media. His photographic installations reinterpret the material essence of images by burning and capturing portraits visually.
4. Baku Hashimoto, an animator, utilizes unique devices in stop-motion projects to explore how images manifest. His work will be complemented by live animation processes during the exhibition period.
5. Asako Fujikura constructs imaginary urban environments using 3DCG and AI, creating installations that evoke dynamic interactions within urban logistics and nature.

Immersive Installations

Attending this exhibition provides not just an opportunity to observe but to engage physically with the installations. Visitors are invited to walk through spaces that unite photo works with video and sculpture, creating a multifaceted experience with images, memories, and time.

Furthermore, the exhibition will include live performances by artists like Baku Hashimoto, giving attendees a glimpse into the creative processes behind the works, adding yet another layer to the experience of art appreciation.

Related Events

The museum will host a series of talks featuring the exhibiting artists and guest speakers, focusing on their works and themes that intersect with modern art and society. Notable discussions include conversations among renowned curators, artists, and philosophers, all held in an engaging format that invites public attendance.

Visiting Information

• - Location: Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, 1-13-3 Mita, Meguro, Tokyo
• - Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (open till 8:00 PM on Thursdays and Fridays)
• - Admission Fee: General ¥700, with discounts for students and seniors.

The Tokyo Photographic Art Museum invites the public to experience the evolving landscape of contemporary photographic art in this thought-provoking exhibition. Through innovative techniques and compelling narratives, 'Assembling Anew' promises to engage and challenge how we view and interpret our visual world.