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Let’s talk about art at the Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo

This new English-language art conversation at the museum lets you engage in cultural exchange while learning more about Japanese modern art

Friday 15 March 2019

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When you look at a painting of cherry blossoms, do you think of Japan? Do you see the blooms as the personification of beauty? Or is it fragility? What else comes to mind when you think of Japan? Wouldn’t it be great if you have the chance to share your impressions of Japan with people from other parts of the world? That would certainly broaden your worldview.

With this in mind, the Museum of Modern Art Tokyo has created a unique art experience for foreign visitors. This programme, called ‘Let’s Talk Art!’, is no ordinary, passive museum tour. Think of it as part cultural exchange, part art dialogue, where you’ll not only discuss art with people from other cultures but also learn from them while exploring different points of view.

So it doesn’t matter if you have no prior knowledge in art. A facilitator will help get the conversation started by deciding on a theme and then choosing works from the museum’s vast collection of 20th century modern Japanese art. You’ll get to appreciate art from a more personal and engaging level – and here are more reasons why you should sign up for ‘Let’s Talk Art!’.

Have a real conversation around art

‘Let’s Talk Art!’ is for everyone who wants to engage with international visitors from different cultures. So instead of just taking in information from a guide, this innovative art programme is designed to be more of a conversation among a small group of visitors, who could come from diverse cultures.

Of course, there will be an official museum facilitator bringing you around to drive the conversation among your group by highlighting three selected pieces of art with a common theme. It’s more than just whether you like a piece of art; you’ll be able to understand that art is open to interpretation, and that different people have different approaches to appreciating art.

Understand the historical context of Japanese modern art

What is art without history? A good conversation on art should not just be how great the work is, but also how it came about. Is it a reflection of the times? Is it a representation of the artist’s struggles with a specific milestone event? What is the artist trying to say?

Fret not, this is not a quiz, and anyone is welcome to partake in the art dialogue. Through its existing guide programmes for Japanese visitors, the museum has realised that it’s easier for visitors to discover the history and context of artworks through conversation, while exchanging ideas – no prior knowledge of art history necessary. In the process, you’ll also get to broaden your horizon by listening to different points of view from your fellow participants of other nationalities.

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Help foster a diverse yet inclusive community in Tokyo through art appreciation

‘Let’s Talk Art!’ is designed with the input of international university students in Tokyo. It seeks to improve cross-cultural understanding and communication among people in Japan. As such, it doesn’t just provide information to foreign visitors; it’s also a way for Japanese institutions like MOMAT to learn from people from all over the world. After all, art is one of the best ways to foster inclusivity and celebrate diversity.

Thus, with eyes on the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Olympics, this programme will help promote an open, inclusive society that celebrates cultural diversity through the mutual appreciation of art.

‘Let’s Talk Art!’ runs every Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30 pm, starting on March 22. The programme is open to all foreign visitors aged 11 and above, and it's limited to six persons per session. Participation requires prior reservation online and costs ¥1,500 per person inclusive of the museum admission fee. For more information, check MOMAT's website.