Press

　

The new structure brings together leaders with diverse expertise and backgrounds to guide the fair’s vision and programming
　

(Kyoto, Japan, March 10, 2026) – Art Collaboration Kyoto (ACK) announces a new leadership structure, in which a Leadership Committee consisting of seven members will steer the fair’s vision and programming together. Effective April 1, the fair’s transition from a single fair director model to a collective leadership structure reflects its principle of collaboration since its inception.
　

With a commitment to open dialogue and exchange of ideas, the new structure brings together seven leaders from the cultural sector with diverse expertise and backgrounds to guide the fair’s program. Five of them have been part of ACK since its inception, and three of them are based in Kyoto. Operating under the governance of the Executive Committee and the Management Board, the Leadership Committee unites department heads to collectively steward the fair’s strategic and operational direction.
　

Members of the ACK Leadership Committee include (listed in alphabetical order):

– Miho Doi, Director of Experiences
– Yoko Hattori, Director of Operations
– Keiko Mine, Director of Educational Programs
– Masako Ohishi, Director of Public Affairs
– Hidenori Suzuki, Director of Gallery Relations and Fair Production
– Miwa Takamura, Director of VIP Relations
– Wakako Tezen, Director of Partnerships

As ACK enters its sixth edition and cements its footing on the global art world calendar, the new Leadership Committee structure reinforces what makes the fair distinct—its collaborative gallery presentations, distinctive venues, international outlook, partnerships across the city and beyond, and sense of “Kyoto-ness”—through shared, cross-functional leadership.
　

As part of this transition, Yukako Yamashita, who has served as Fair Director since 2022, will step down from the role in March 2026 and will serve as the Chairperson of ACK Ambassadors, an intimate, global network of established and next-generation collectors and cultural leaders united by a genuine commitment to art and community.
　

Yukako Yamashita commented:
“ACK is truly co-created by a global community, not defined by a single perspective but by the many distinct experiences and sensibilities of those who participate. In a time when meaningful human connections are increasingly fragile, ACK demonstrates the power of collaborative intelligence to bring people together. This new leadership structure represents an important step forward in deepening that collective spirit. As Chairperson of the Ambassadors, I look forward to nurturing and expanding this community, and I am proud to support this evolution and continue contributing to ACK in this new capacity.
　

　

Statement from the Leadership Committee

“Art Collaboration Kyoto (ACK) was founded with the mission of creating a sustainable ecosystem in Kyoto that supports Japan’s art scene. Rooted in the belief that the synergy between art and economy brings new value to society, ACK plays a pivotal role in pioneering the future of contemporary art. What ACK seeks is to establish Kyoto as a global art destination each autumn, evolving into a dynamic hub where art professionals can gather and connect. Through singular experiences and time spent there, ACK will foster a vibrant community whose members resonate deeply with one another.
　

Starting in 2026, ACK will be led by a seven-member Leadership Committee. Guided by the collaborative ethos proclaimed since its founding, directors with different expertise and backgrounds will discuss as equals under a collective system where diverse perspectives intersect, creating new value through dialogue. In today’s rapidly changing world, the concept of “collaboration” rooted in human connections and an understanding of others has become an essential element in building a better society. What ACK places importance on is collaboration that goes beyond mere cooperation. Above all, it values a process in which different standpoints and values intersect and stimulate each other, allowing respective strengths to deepen. We believe that continuously updating the format of ACK, responding to the times without being bound by precedents, is precisely the path forward for art fairs of the future.
　

Unique venue configurations, collaborative gallery exhibitions, partnerships with various collaborators, viewing experiences extending throughout the city, internationality, Kyoto’s distinctive character, encounters unique to ACK, a space serving the function of nurturing the next generation of cultural leaders, and an openness to diverse people. While broadly sharing these core principles, ACK aims to create a platform filled with new discoveries, trusting in the value of “physical experiences” born from chance encounters. As it embraces the changing times and new ideas with receptivity and flexibility, ACK will continue to serve as an open space for exchange, expanding from Kyoto to Asia and the world.”
　

The sixth edition of Art Collaboration Kyoto (ACK) will take place from November 7 to 9, 2026, with a preview day on November 6, at the Kyoto International Conference Center (ICC Kyoto).

Notes to Editors

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 will feature a special exhibition, talks series, and family programs. Beyond the fair, a number of special projects and exhibitions will be concurrently on view in Kyoto.
　

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 located at the Kyoto International Conference Center (Takaragaike, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City) and others. For more information, please visit https://a-c-k.jp/en/.

Media Contacts
FITZ & CO | Georgina Zhao | gzhao@fitzandco.com
Art Collaboration Kyoto | Yoshiko Nawa and Rasa Tsuda | press@a-c-k.jp