Hagiennale 2012

The 'Hagi' of the title refers to Hagiso, a rickety old apartment block in the traditional Yanaka district that was given a new lease of life when it was taken over by students from Tokyo University of Art in 2004. After being used as studios and apartments for the past seven years, the building – which, at over 50 years old, is positively ancient by Tokyo standards – is now earmarked for demolition. But rather than let go out with a whimper (where's the art in that?), Hagiso's residents are staging a climactic exhibition. The Hagiennale will run for three weeks, and promises a mix of both site-specific installations and art work inspired by Hagiso itself – and don't be surprised if a few tears are shed at the closing party, on March 17.