Press

(Kyoto, Japan, November 3, 2024) – The fourth edition of Art Collaboration Kyoto (ACK) closed today, following four days of consistent sales and thoughtful conversations between the arts communities in Japan and abroad. Held at the Kyoto International Conference Center (ICC Kyoto) from November 1 to 3, 2024, with a preview day on October 31, the fair brought together 69 galleries from 18 countries/regions and 24 cities, including 33 first-time exhibitors. Increased number of visitors from around the world attended the fair, including private collectors and institutional representatives from across Japan, Asia, Europe and UK, and North and South America. Once again, the fair had bonded status, allowing international exhibitors to be exempt from the 10% sales tax that otherwise would have been imposed pre-sale. ACK will return to Kyoto from November 14 to 16, 2025 with a preview day on November 13.
　

Established in 2021, ACK introduces an innovative art fair model anchored in the spirit of collaboration, complemented by Kyoto’s inviting ethos and rich history of art and culture. ACK’s “Gallery Collaborations” section pairs a Japan-based gallery with its international peer in a shared booth to co-present a unique and thoughtful exhibition, while “Kyoto Meetings” features presentations with distinct connections to Kyoto.
　

This year, ACK’s “Gallery Collaborations” welcomed 29 international galleries hosted by 27 Japan-based galleries in shared booths. Highlights included the joint presentation by Mitochu Koeki Co. (Tokyo) and Annely Juda Fine Art (London), exploring the conceptual connections between artist and theorist Kazimir Malevich and ceramicist Raku Jikinyü XV; the shared booth of Taro Nasu (Tokyo) and Matthew Marks (New York and Los Angeles) featuring works by Simone Leigh, Robert Gober, Sturtevant, Ryan Gander, and Pierre Huyghe; and a thematic booth by Shibunkaku (Kyoto) and first-time ACK exhibitor Kurimanzutto (Mexico City and New York) presenting modern and traditional Japanese artworks alongside works by contemporary artists including Gabriel Orozco, Abraham Cruzvillegas, Rirkrit Tiravanija, Damián Ortega, Haegue Yang, and Minerva Cuevas. Many galleries placed international artists in dialogue with one another, such as SCAI The Bathhouse (Tokyo) and Tanya Bonakdar Gallery (New York and Los Angeles) presenting works by He Xiangyu and Analia Saban; and Blum (Los Angeles, Tokyo, New York) and Foksal Gallery Foundation (Warsaw) featuring works by Pawel Althamer, Karol Palczak, Akane Saijo, Wilhelm Sasnal, Agata Slowak and others.
　

“Kyoto Meetings” featured 13 local and international galleries with presentations that had connections to the historic city of Kyoto, offering an opportunity to explore the city from varied perspectives. Highlights included neugerriemschneider (Berlin), which showcased paintings by Andreas Eriksson complementing his concurrent exhibition at the historical villa of Murin-an; and Perrotin’s (Paris, New York, Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Los Angeles) booth exploring mythologies and metamorphosis by Johan Creten and Izumi Kato. In parallel, Kato’s works are also on view in dialogue with works by Bosco Sodi (represented by SCAI The Bathhouse) at the Ryosoku-in Temple. Oscaar Mouligne (Kyoto), founded in 2023, presented works by Tokyo-based Norwegian artist Gardar Eide Einarsson, timed with the artist’s solo exhibition at the gallery; and another first-time ACK exhibitor Mtk Contemporary Art (Kyoto) presented a solo presentation of work with built-in AI by Kyoto-based artist Yuichiro Tamura.
　

For the full list of participating galleries, please visit https://a-c-k.jp/en/exhibitors/.
　

Dedicated to enriching and developing the art ecosystem in Kyoto and beyond, the fair hosted a series of additional programs during its 2024 edition, including the fair’s Public Program with Arts Collective, a Hong Kong-based curating platform founded by André Chan and Chin-Yin Chong, as its guest curator. The fair’s programming also included dynamic conversation topics and leading panel participants for ACK Talks; special projects and exhibitions extending beyond ICC Kyoto and across the city of Kyoto in the fair’s Associated Programs; enriching, participatory events hosted through ACK Kids’ Programs, tethered to ACK’s mission of cultivating the future of the art world within Japan and beyond; and Special Programs hosted in collaboration with partner companies, providing new perspectives on art.
　

Yukako Yamashita, ACK’s Program Director, said, “This year, I truly felt that ACK has gained greater recognition and secured its place on the global art calendar. Visitors shared that the quality of the fair’s presentations and organization have both significantly improved, which I believe is a testament to the collective efforts of participating galleries, exhibiting artists, Kyoto Prefecture, and our partner companies. Collectors from around the world including South Korea, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and more attended, as well as institutional representatives from Europe and the United States, allowing us to introduce Japanese and Asian artists to an international audience. Additionally, it was wonderful to see galleries holding exhibitions across Kyoto in conjunction with ACK, bringing a lively atmosphere to the entire city. Ultimately, ACK aspires to be a platform that contributes to sustaining a healthy market and collaborative culture in the years to come. We understand this takes time and collective effort, and this year’s edition was another meaningful step towards this vision.”
　

Exhibitors at ACK commented on the novel fair model and international turnout.
　

“The unique booth design was one of the key factors that convinced me to participate in ACK for the first time this year. With their open, skeleton structure, it’s easy to connect with not only those inside the booth but also those walking by the aisles. The process of creating a booth together with a well-experienced peer overseas was also enjoyable. I think ACK is a collegial fair where everyone can connect slowly and freely. I am considering coming back here again next year – not only to sell but also to grow our gallery’s presence in the Kansai region.”
Rika Fujiki, Owner of MUJIN-TO Production
　

“I visited ACK last year and was captivated by its wonderful atmosphere, inspiring me to join this year. I had the unexpected opportunity to meet new collectors and sold over 100 pieces of Ryuta Fukumura’s work. His use of repurposed silver from old electrical materials drew significant interest from international collectors. Additionally, Lucas Arruda’s exhibition at Daitoku-ji Temple this year brought many collectors to my nearby gallery, creating a wonderful opportunity for further engagement.”
Hideo Kanegae, Director of Kanegae
　

“I’m incredibly impressed with the fair and enjoyed being here. I saw that participating gallerists have made a big effort on their presentations, the way the booths are designed was unique and beautiful, and the fair was very well visited, including by important museum directors. Our presentation was very well received. Visitors were particularly excited about Raku who is very well known in Kyoto but also about drawings by Malevich, with whom Raku wanted to show. Sales were quite successful, and we leave Kyoto very happy.”
David Juda, Director of Annely Juda Fine Art
　

“We were honored to participate in ACK 2024, which introduces an entirely new model for art fairs in the culturally rich and traditional city of Kyoto. I believe ACK represents a bold and innovative initiative, opening an exciting new chapter in the art market. ACK is a platform that not only delivers high quality exhibitions but also attracts collectors, artists, and critics. We look forward to seeing the fair’s continued growth and future impact.”
Minyoung Joo, Senior Director at Johyun Gallery
　

“We enjoyed another inspiring week in our deaccelerating time machine ACK. Our presentations with Andreas Eriksson at the fair and at Murin-an garden solidly convinced us to return for next year’s edition.”
Tim Neuger, Co-founder of neugerriemschneider
　

“Our first time exhibiting at ACK has been a great experience. We had the perfect collaboration between our gallery and SCAI THE BATHHOUSE, and our artist Analia Saban and their artist, He Xiangyu.”
Tanya Bonakdar, Owner of Tanya Bonakdar Gallery
　

“The fair provided a fantastic platform to connect with a diverse range of collectors and art enthusiasts. We appreciated the warm reception to our presentation and the new connections forged here, which I believe will lead to exciting opportunities in the future.”
Monica Manzutto, Co-founder of kurimanzutto
　

“We were very happy to return to ACK, by the kind invitation from Tomio Koyama Gallery, our esteemed partner in collaborating with artists and collectors over the years. ACK serves as an exceptional hub for engaging with Japanese collectors and art professionals, offering exhibitors a platform to showcase unique presentations that stand out from those found elsewhere. We were particularly excited about Tseng ChienYing’s solo presentation, which has yielded remarkable outcomes through dialogues with notable figures such as Hideaki Kawashima, Masahiko Kuwahara, and Koji Nakazono. This collaboration has also opened doors for Tseng to connect with various international institutions, enhancing opportunities for future partnerships.”
Huang Yaji, founder of Each Modern
　

“I believe ACK is one of the highest-quality art fairs in Japan. By participating, I was able to learn from the displays by international galleries and the talks held onsite, making it a valuable experience as a gallerist. We presented Anne Kagioka Rigoulet’s paintings, and she conducted research on Kyoto’s Kamigamo Shrine to create her work, which made it an enjoyable and fulfilling fair.”
Masahiro Maki, Director of MAKI Gallery
　

“This year, in addition to our presentation at ACK, we were able to realize an exhibition of He Xiangyu at Manshuin Temple and Artro, extending our presence beyond the ICC. This special occasion attracted more international and Asian collectors who are interested in He Xiangyu’s work to visit ACK and Kyoto, which we greatly appreciated.”
Masami Shiraishi, President of SCAI The Bathhouse
　

　

More information about ACK 2024 programming:
　

Public Program
ACK’s Public Program presented a survey of works selected by Guest Curator Arts Collective. Responding to the fair’s curatorial theme “Resilience–for your own happiness”, the exhibition titled “What the map doesn’t say” examined ideas of impermanence, movement, and progress in our rapidly changing world. The Public Program featured works by Naiza Khan, Maria Nepmuceno, Anri Sala, Tomás Saraceno, Wong Ping, Chim↑Pom and more.
For additional information on the Public Program, please visit https://a-c-k.jp/en/ack-curates/public-program/.
　

ACK Talks
ACK Talks hosted a series of dynamic conversations featuring artists and industry leaders, exploring themes of resilience and recovery. Speakers included Raku Jikinyu (Ceramic Artist); Tadashi Kawamata (Artist); Alan Lau (Vice-Chair, M+ / Chair, ParaSite / Co-Chair, Tate Asia Acquisition Committee / Co-Chair, Guggenheim AA), Takatoshi Nishiwaki (Governor of Kyoto Prefecture); René Redzepi (Founder, Head Chef and Co-Owner of noma); Tomás Saraceno (Artist); Justine Alexandra Tek (Director of Yuz Museum Shanghai and Yuz Foundation); and more. For additional information on ACK Talks, please visit https://a-c-k.jp/en/talks.
　

ACK Kids’ Programs
Committed to bettering the future of the art world, the fair also hosted ACK Kids’ Programs at ICC Kyoto, dedicated to community enrichment and development. Programs included guided tours of the fair and artist workshops focused on the act of “Seeing” and “Making” art. ACK Kids’ Programs were free of charge, and bilingual (Japanese and English) childcare services were available to visitors with children 7 years or younger. For further details about ACK Kids’ Program, please visit https://a-c-k.jp/en/for-kids/.
　

Special Programs
ACK partnered with Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd. as its lead partner for the fourth time in the 2024 edition of the fair. Special Programs are annually held in collaboration with partner companies within the ICC Kyoto, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about multi-layered interpretations of art. This year featured projects by six participating partner companies, including a new work by Shiori Watanabe presented in collaboration with Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores Co., Ltd. and their Ladder Project, which aims to support the next generation of artists. Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) presented Kogei Café in partnership with YUGEN, a Japanese tea store in Kyoto, using tableware from the MUFG KOGEI Project, which supports the transmission of craft culture and techniques based on the concepts of tradition and innovation. Furthermore, works by artists such as Takahiro Iwasaki were showcased in collaboration with Takashimaya Company, Limited; an exhibition was held with Hakko L.R. Co., Ltd. that integrated art and cars; and ACK’s main media partner Hearst presented an exhibition exploring the fusion of art and fashion by Harper’s BAZAAR art. Champagne Pommery, the official champagne partner of ACK, also presented works by the “Pommery Prize Kyoto 2024” finalists, an award for supporting young artists based in Kyoto, which was started on the occasion of ACK in 2023. For additional information on ACK’s Special Programs, please visit https://a-c-k.jp/en/special-programs/.
　

Associated Programs
In addition to its presentations within ICC Kyoto and online, the fair extended into the streets of Kyoto through ACK’s Associated Programs, further enriching the local community and exemplifying cultural experiences unique to Kyoto’s contemporary art scene. The Associated Programs were comprised of Special Exhibition supported by partner companies and Open Call Programs chosen and supported by ACK. This year’s Special Exhibition was a video and sculpture installation by Japanese artist Shota Yamauchi at the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art in collaboration with pure gold craftmakers, SGC; and the Open Call Programs included concurrent solo exhibitions by He Xiangyu organized by Hattori Shoji Corporation Artro and SCAI The Bathhouse; ‘Dolly’, an exhibition of new works by artist Genki Isayama at hakari contemporary; and more. For additional information on ACK’s Associated Programs, please visit https://a-c-k.jp/en/associated-programs/.

Notes to Editors

Images
Please download images from Art Collaboration Kyoto 2024 here.
　

About Art Collaboration Kyoto
Art Collaboration Kyoto is a culture-forward contemporary art fair held in Kyoto with collaboration at its core. One of the leading art fairs in Japan specializing in contemporary art, Art Collaboration Kyoto presents unique collaborations forged between Japanese and international galleries; government and private sectors; and fine arts and other cultural spheres in Kyoto. Hosted in the Kyoto International Conference Center (ICC Kyoto), the fair consists of two sections: “Gallery Collaborations”, which pairs a Japan-based gallery with its international peer in a shared booth; and “Kyoto Meetings”, which features presentations with distinct connections to Kyoto. In addition, ACK Curates will feature its Public Program, talks series, and family programs. Beyond the fair, special exhibitions are held in Kyoto City through the ACK Open Call Programs, along with other partner exhibitions.
　

Art Collaboration Kyoto is organized by the ACK Executive Committee, which includes the Kyoto Prefecture; Association for the Promotion of Contemporary Art in Japan; Contemporary Art Dealers Association Nippon; Culture Vision Japan Foundation Inc.; Kyoto Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and the Kyoto Convention and Visitors Bureau. The fair is presented with support from The Cabinet Office, Government of Japan in the fiscal 2024, The Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan in the fiscal 2024, and Japan Tourism Agency, Unique Experience in Japan 2024 in cooperation with JETRO Kyoto, Kyoto City, The Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Japan Association of New Economy, and The Kyoto Shimbun.
　

The fair is located at the Kyoto International Conference Center (Takaragaike, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City) and others. For more information, please visit a-c-k.jp.
　

About Yukako Yamashita, ACK Program Director
Yukako Yamashita was born in Tokyo in 1988 to a family that runs a tea ceremony utensils business in Kyoto. In 2022, she was appointed Program Director of Art Collaboration Kyoto and Kyoto City Growth Strategy Promotion Advisor. Prior to this, she was the managing director of THE CLUB (2017-2022) and held positions at Sotheby’s Japan and London.
　

About Arts Collective, ACK 2024’s Guest Curators of the Public Program
Co-founded by curators André Chan and Chin-Yin Chong in 2018, Arts Collective is a curating platform based in Hong Kong. The collective’s practice resides in the intersection of contemporary art, cultural influences, and interdisciplinary connections. They were selected for the Emerging Curators Project at the Power Station of Art, Shanghai in 2018.
　
Chin-Yin Chong has previously worked at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Taipei, and Hong Kong Arts Centre, as well as has experiences in galleries and various art projects in the Asian region. Working collectively and independently, Chong’s recent research explores artistic practices, transdisciplinary exchanges, and collaborations. Chong was a curator-in-residence for the Delfina Foundation’s summer 2022 season.
　
André Chan’s curatorial work focuses on artists’ engagement with contemporary urban issues. His recent research is on video games made by artists and exploring the fallacies within the modern tech world. Chan was selected for the Emerging Curators program by Para Site in Hong Kong in 2018, and has been recognized for his curatorial work through exhibitions and performances in various cities and institutions.
　

Selection Committee
Axel Dibie, Galerie Crèvecœur (Paris)
Yoshiaki Inoue, Yoshiaki Inoue Gallery (Osaka)
Tomio Koyama, Tomio Koyama Gallery (Tokyo)
Yuichi Mori, Mori Yu Gallery (Kyoto)
Jeffrey Rosen, Misako & Rosen (Tokyo)
Shelly Wu, TKG+ (Taipei)
Yuko Yamamoto, Anomaly (Tokyo)
　

Spatial Design by Takashi Suo
The venue layout for this year’s ACK has been redesigned from previous editions by architect and designer Takashi Suo, unifying the Gallery Collaboration and Kyoto Meeting booths with a unique and cohesive design.

Sponsors and Partners

Media Contacts
FITZ & CO | Sarah St. Amand | sstamand@fitzandco.com
Art Collaboration Kyoto | Yoshiko Nawa and Rasa Tsuda | press@a-c-k.jp