table of contents
1. Introduction
2. What is contemporary art?
3. The appeal of contemporary art
4. Tips for beginners to enjoy art appreciation
5. Contemporary art spots you can enjoy in Japan
6. Summary
1. Introduction
What image comes to mind when you hear the term "contemporary art"? Many people may think it's "difficult," "incomprehensible," or "high-brow." However, contemporary art is actually full of charm that anyone can enjoy. In this article, we'll explain in an easy-to-understand way everything from the basics of contemporary art to its appeal and tips for appreciating it, even for beginners. We hope you'll read this article and take your first step into the world of contemporary art.
2. What is contemporary art?
Contemporary art mainly refers to art created from the mid-20th century onwards, and there are many different types, as shown below.
・Painting, sculpture, photography
・Installation art: The work is created by utilizing the entirety of a specific space.
・Performance art: The artist creates the work through direct performance.
・Digital art: Works created using digital devices such as computers
A defining feature of contemporary art is its "freedom." Unbound by rules or formalities, it is a space where artists can freely express their thoughts, feelings, and questions about social issues. Therefore, what constitutes "art" varies from work to work.
One of the attractions of contemporary art is not just its visual beauty, but also the messages and questions it poses.
3. The appeal of contemporary art
Stimulates the imagination
Contemporary art does not always have clear answers. Rather, it aims to make the viewer think, "What is this work trying to communicate?" This allows you to experience art as a way to freely expand your own senses and imagination.
For example, Yayoi Kusama's Pumpkin series. Behind its pop and humorous appearance lies a deep story from her life and innermost thoughts. Knowing this background changes the way you look at the work and gives rise to your own interpretation.
Image taken from https://yayoikusamastore.jp/products/e-ptpu
・Everyone can enjoy it freely
The interesting thing about contemporary art is that there is no "correct answer." Traditional art often places importance on technical perfection and historical background, but contemporary art allows the viewer to interpret it freely. Even if you wonder "Is this really art?", the dialogue that can be generated from it is the essence of contemporary art.
4. Tips for beginners to enjoy art appreciation
To enjoy contemporary art, it's important not to think too hard about it. Here are some tips to help beginners enjoy art casually.
・Pay attention to the "background" of the work
When appreciating a work of art, first look at its background and the artist's intentions. By reading the title and description of the work, you can understand the theme it contains. For example, Banksy's street art may appear simple at first glance, but it contains strong political and social messages.
Image taken from https://www.myartbroker.com/artist-banksy/series-girl-with-balloon/artwork-girl-with-balloon-signed-print
- Value your own opinions
Don't be influenced by the opinions of others, but focus on how you feel. Even a simple, intuitive reaction like "It's kind of interesting" or "It makes me feel strange" is enough. That's the true joy of contemporary art.
Take a photo and look back on it later
Many museums and galleries allow photography (although please note that flash photography is often prohibited). Taking a photo of a work of art that catches your eye and looking back at it later can deepen your impression of it. Also, reading other people's impressions on social media can give you a new perspective.
5. Contemporary art spots you can enjoy in Japan
・Naoshima (Kagawa Prefecture)
Naoshima, located in the Seto Inland Sea, is a mecca for contemporary art lovers. The Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House exhibit works by artists such as Monet, James Turrell, and Tadao Ando. Yayoi Kusama's "Pumpkin" is a must-see.
Image taken from Benesse Art Site Naoshima
・Mori Art Museum (Tokyo)
At the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills, you can experience the cutting edge of contemporary art from Japan and abroad. The special exhibitions, which change according to themes, are designed to be enjoyable even for beginners.
Currently, we are exhibiting Machine Love: Video Games, AI and Contemporary Art . Contemporary art is under threat from the emergence of generative AI, but around 50 pieces of contemporary art are being exhibited that take advantage of the threat and incorporate technologies such as AI.
・3331 Arts Chiyoda (Tokyo)
This art space was created by renovating an abandoned school. It hosts solo exhibitions and events by indie artists, allowing you to casually experience art.
6. Summary
Contemporary art is like magic, drawing out the free imagination of its viewers. At first, it may seem difficult, but once you get the hang of how to enjoy it, you'll surely find it fascinating. Cherish your honest feelings of "What is this?" and "Interesting!" and enjoy it from your own perspective.
On your days off, why not visit a nearby art museum or gallery? Taking a step into the unknown will surely bring you new discoveries and moving experiences.
FROM ARTIST has approximately 600 artists from all over Japan registered, and you can view many of their works on its website. They also sell paintings, so you can enjoy them in your home as if they were in a museum.
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Written by: MIKIKO
FROM ARTIST Management staff. I write columns. I provide management support so that we can convey the appeal of artists.
Supervisor: Shoma Toida
CEO of BUSCA LLC. Head of FROM ARTIST. Started his career as a marketer, he worked for a business company and an advertising agency before going independent. He completed marketing-related programs at several graduate schools and business schools, including the University of California, Berkeley and London Business School. He also completed the MBA core curriculum at Macquarie University and studied the importance of art in education at the University of British Columbia.
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