Art Collaboration Kyoto closes its third edition with “consistent sales.”
Bae Sejin, installation view of public program “Beyond Glitch,” at Art Collaboration Kyoto, 2023. Photo by Moriya Yuki. Courtesy of Art Collaboration Kyoto.
After four days of “consistent sales,” the third edition of Art Collaboration Kyoto (ACK) concluded today at the Kyoto International Conference Center. Some 64 galleries from 16 countries—including 33 first-time exhibitors—took part in this year’s event.
At ACK’s signature Gallery Collaborations section, 26 Japanese galleries hosted 27 international counterparts to participate in joint presentations. The section showcases groundbreaking work, including the joint presentation from Shibunkaku and Galerie Crèvecoeur, showing the works of Vienna–based artist Ernst Yohji Jaeger with Western and Japanese names who inspired him.
“ACK’s concept of pairing up local galleries with overseas galleries to exhibit is very unique, and I hope it continues in the future,” Tokutaro Yamauchi at Shibunkaku said. “When exhibiting at overseas art fairs, I often hear people say that they want to visit Kyoto, and I think ACK will serve as a great opportunity for Japanese galleries to create a gateway to the city. With all the attention on Kyoto, the timing of the fair during the season of autumn leaves is perfect. The fair’s layout is interesting, and the scale is very fitting for Kotyo.”
Interior view of Art Collaboration Kyoto. Photo by Moriya Yuki. Courtesy of Art Collaboration Kyoto.
Highlighting Kyoto, Japan’s vibrant local scene, the “Kyoto Meetings” section featured 11 galleries presenting works directly tied to the city’s culture and history. American Dike Blair and local artists Muku Kobayashi and Rina Matsudaira were among those who showcased their Kyoto-inspired works.
“ACK stands out amongst many art fairs around the world with its unique concept of collaboration,” said Thibault Geffrin, director of Almine Rech. “This was our first time participating in the fair, and it served as a great entry point into the Japanese art market. The Japanese market has its own rhythm, and understanding the context and taking the time to cultivate relationships is extremely crucial. Partnering with our local host gallery Kotaro Nukaga from Tokyo, allowed us to more easily navigate the cultural and language barriers and make meaningful connections with new local collectors.”
Additionally, the annual fair retained its received bonded status, granting international exhibitors an exemption from Japan’s 10% sales tax. ACK announced its return for November 1–3, 2024.
