#Japan #Tokyo #SHUHALLY #Ryuta Aoki #Soryo Matsumura

SHUHALLY: Pioneering an Artist-Centric Cultural Vision

In a groundbreaking initiative, social sculptor Ryuta Aoki and tea master Soryo Matsumura have announced the establishment of SHUHALLY, an internationally-oriented cultural institution driven by artists. The organization has secured a total investment of 1 billion yen to serve as its operational foundation. With a mission to explore and reinterpret traditional and contemporary cultures rooted in local communities, SHUHALLY aims to cultivate a unique space for artistic research and development.

A New Framework for Cultural Inquiry

SHUHALLY will initially be supported by two operational entities: VOLOCITEE, a company leading artistic research and development since 2011, and METACITY, established in 2018 as a space for urban inquiry. Both organizations will undergo a rebranding to adopt the SHUHALLY identity, emphasizing a collaborative approach to culture that begins at the local level.

By examining Japan's rich cultural tapestry, from tea ceremonies to contemporary crafts, SHUHALLY seeks to foster a dialogue between local traditions and modern practices. The organization aims to build on the accumulated knowledge of communities, engaging artists, researchers, and local stakeholders in collaborative inquiries that will challenge contemporary norms and explore alternative possibilities for society.

Expanding the Cultural Landscape

Unlike previous artist-driven initiatives in Japan, SHUHALLY's unprecedented scale and funding model aim to sustain long-term cultural practices. Recognizing that artistic exploration often requires significant time to yield visible outcomes, SHUHALLY plans to establish a continuous foundation that transcends individual projects. The organization will engage in joint research with businesses, universities, and other cultural institutions, organizing various public events, exhibitions, and community initiatives.

SHUHALLY will also focus on developing localized hubs that encourage cultural exchange, not solely relying on large-scale facilities. By collaborating with local governments, real estate developers, and cultural institutions, SHUHALLY envisions small yet dynamic spaces that will serve as platforms for artistic research, dialogue, and interaction in their respective communities.

Global Ambitions

Internationally, SHUHALLY aims to establish connections between its hubs and overseas markets, with New York City being a primary target for potential development. The groundwork for this expansion will occur independently of the current capital investment, allowing SHUHALLY to adapt and expand its influence across various cultural landscapes worldwide.

Roadmap to Realization

SHUHALLY's development is set to unfold in several milestones:

• - 2026-2027: Initial preparations will focus on team formation, program development, and partnerships with domestic and international collaborators.
• - Summer 2027: SHUHALLY will officially launch, intensifying hiring practices and initiating collaborative development.
• - Mid to Long-term Goals: Collaborating with cultural institutions across East and Southeast Asia, SHUHALLY plans to expand its influence, launching awards and conferences to encourage further cultural engagement.

Recruitment for Collaboration

SHUHALLY is inviting researchers, universities, and enterprises for artistic R&D partnerships. Additionally, local governments, real estate entities, and cultural organizations are encouraged to join in co-developing domestic hubs that will serve to invigorate local cultural practices and promote community engagement.

Founders' Vision

Ryuta Aoki emphasizes the importance of reimagining the institutions and expressions that shape our world, suggesting that exploring what remains unselected from historical narratives is vital for shaping alternative futures. Soryo Matsumura likens cultural practices to a tea ceremony, where every element contributes to a unique experience, underlining the necessity of collaboration among artists and artisans alike.

About SHUHALLY

Founded by Aoki and Matsumura, SHUHALLY represents a fusion of artistic inquiry, community engagement, and cultural transformation. The name itself reflects a philosophy rooted in the traditional concept of “shuhari,” representing the stages of learning and mastery. As the organization progresses, it seeks to redefine cultural institutions within Japan and beyond, ensuring that artistic expressions continue to evolve and thrive.

For more information, please visit SHUHALLY's official website.