Special Programs

The Ladder Project is an initiative launched by Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Store that supports the creation of new works by the next generation of artists who aim to make their mark on the world stage. This year, the project presents a new work by Watanabe Shiori, known for works that reflect the relationship between biological systems and society.

Artist: Watanabe Shiori

Planning & Production: NYAW inc.
Cooperation: Ladder Project 2024 Nomination Committee (Iida Shihoko, Sumi Naoko, Yabumae Tomoko)
Special Partner: Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores Co.Ltd.

Website: Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores Co.Ltd.

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.（MUFG） launched the “MUFG Kogei Project” in 2023 under the theme of “tradition and innovation” in order to realize its corporate purpose of “empowering a brighter future.” The project aims to support the inheritance of Japanese traditional craft (“kogei”) culture and techniques and acquire innovations necessary in an era of change. At a specially prepared café within the venue, visitors can enjoy tea and sweets supervised by YUGEN, a specialty Japanese tea shop, using exquisite crafts.
*Please note that due to the limited numbers of tableware sets, there may be cases where visitors cannot participate in the experience.

Artists: Noda Ryoma, Ishiwata Yui, and Ienaga Momoka

Tableware: Akagi Akito (plates) and Takemata Yuichi (cutlery)
Operational Cooperation: YUGEN
General Director: Akimoto Yuji
Special Partner: Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.

Website: MUFG Kogei Project

In collaboration with the “ART WEEKS” event at Kyoto Takashimaya S.C., which celebrates its first anniversary, and “ART SESSION by Kyoto Tsutaya” and “Takahiro Iwasaki Solo Exhibition” programs highlighting the synergy shared between tradition and cutting-edge innovation through art, the exhibition Resonance will showcase works by Takahiro Iwasaki, Keiji Uematsu, and Saya Okubo. Enjoy an art program that extends beyond the main ACK venue to encompass the entire city of Kyoto this fall.

Artists: Iwasaki Takahiro, Uematsu Keiji, and Okubo Saya

Planning & Production: CCC ARTLAB
Cooperation: Anomaly and Waitingroom
Special Partner: Takashimaya Company, Limited

Website: Takashimaya Company, Limited

As special partners for the second time, this year ACK will host its first collaboration between cars and art at the main venue, the Kyoto International Conference Center. The showcase will feature flagship models from two major British luxury car brands, in collaboration with emerging artist Shinagawa Ryo and bonsai producer of the new generation Kojima Teppei. The unifying element among all four participants is the impact they make on a global stage. Experience firsthand the vision of “passing the torch to the next generation” as conceived by today’s leading innovators.

Artists: Shinagawa Ryo and Kojima Teppei (TRADMAN’S BONSAI)

Planning & Production: WATOWA INC.
Special Partner: Hakko LR Co.,Ltd.

Introducing “Harper’s BAZAAR art no. 2,” set for release on October 19, 2024, and “Harper’s BAZAAR,” the roots of the project and the world’s oldest existing fashion magazine which was founded in New York in 1867. The theme of the exhibition appearing at the ACK venue this year is “The fusion of art and fashion.” Experience the luxury and rich history of “Harper’s BAZAAR”.

Special Partner: Harper’s BAZAAR art

Website: Harper’s BAZAAR art

Champagne Pommery, which has a history of innovation and pioneering spirit leading the times, will hold an award for young artists who will play a leading role in Kyoto’s art and culture. The works of three finalists will be exhibited in the VIP lounge of the venue.

Artists: Mori Yuka, Yano Yosuke, and Yuno Aiko
Jury: Kanazawa Kodama (Curator of Contemporary Art)
　 　 Kunieda Katsura （Assistant Curator, Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art）
　 　 Moroi Ken (CEO, Vranken Pommery Japan)

Organizer: Pommery Prize Kyoto
Project Director: Yazu Yoshitaka (Contemporary Artist, Owner of kumagusuku)
Official Champagne Partner: Champagne Pommery
Website: Champagne Pommery

Guided Tour (Japanese only, 30 minutes per session)
This exhibition can be viewed by joining a guided tour.
Please sign up for the tour here.