#Japan #Kyoto #Ruinart #Champagne #Sari Shibata

A Celebration of Art and Champagne: 'Dotok Days'

The much-anticipated exhibition 'Dotok Days' by photographer Sari Shibata is currently taking place at the KYOTOGRAPHIE 2026, held at the ASPHODEL gallery in Higashiyama, Kyoto, from April 18 to May 17, 2026. This exhibition is a part of a broader initiative celebrating the intersection of art with the world of champagne, courtesy of the historic champagne house, Ruinart.

A Legacy of Art and Champagne

Founded in 1729, Ruinart holds the title of the world's oldest champagne house, and its storied history is deeply intertwined with artistic innovation. The maison has a long-standing commitment to merging art with fine champagne, exemplified by its collaborations with artists such as Alphonse Mucha in the late 19th century. In the 21st century, Ruinart continues this tradition through partnerships with various contemporary artists and sponsorship of art fairs.

In 2016, Ruinart became a sponsor of KYOTOGRAPHIE, affirming its dedication to supporting the arts in Japan. The introduction of the Ruinart Japan Award in 2021 further highlights their commitment to discovering and nurturing young Japanese artists. The award offers artists the opportunity for an Artist-in-Residence experience at Ruinart's house in Reims, France, where they can explore the champagne-making process and gain inspiration from the surrounding natural landscapes.

'Dotok Days' — A Journey Through Life and Nature

Sari Shibata, the recipient of the 2025 Ruinart Japan Award, spent time at the Ruinart maison to create her new series for 'Dotok Days'. Drawing inspiration from her experiences in France, Shibata's work reflects on themes of growth and maturity, likening the journey of women to the fruitful process of grape cultivation. She navigates the seasons amidst the vineyards and forests surrounding the maison, and her pieces are imbued with the stories of her homeland’s traditions.

Shibata's artistry is characterized by a refreshing perspective on the relationship between humanity and nature, inviting viewers to witness how they coexist and resonate with each other. Her work captures the essence of life, illustrating the interconnectedness of all beings under the shared warmth of the sun.

The 'Ruinart Bar' Experience

On weekends during the KYOTOGRAPHIE festival, visitors can indulge in the 'Ruinart Bar', where they can savor Ruinart’s exquisite champagne, including their Blanc de Blancs and Rosé offerings. Each glass reflects the distinctive terroir of the champagne’s origin, allowing patrons to experience the deep relationship between art and wine.

Operating hours for the bar are from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, on select dates throughout the festival.

Shibata's Reflection

In her own words, Shibata expresses, “Through self-portraits, I aimed to document human life through my filter. The richness of the soil and the blessings of the sun that I experienced in Reims reminded me of the connection to my own hometown. The shared heritage of cultivating land resonates with both France and Japan. Life can be seen as a circle where every individual shines equally, illuminated by the same shared light of the universe.”

Conclusion

The interplay between art, life, and nature at 'Dotok Days' exemplifies the rich narrative within Shibata's work. Combining the timeless elegance of Ruinart champagne with contemporary artistic expressions, this exhibition promises a stirring experience that celebrates both the visual and the sensory. Don't miss the chance to explore this unique fusion of creativity and tradition at KYOTOGRAPHIE 2026.

For further information on the exhibition and Ruinart's initiatives, please visit KYOTOGRAPHIE's official website.