Introduction

The Aichi Triennale is one of Japan's most significant international contemporary art festivals, held every three years across multiple cities in Aichi Prefecture. Established in 2010, the festival brings together leading and emerging artists from Japan and around the world, presenting a diverse program that spans visual arts, performing arts, and music.

Known for its ambitious scale and engagement with socio-political issues, the Aichi Triennale transforms museums, galleries, theaters, and public spaces throughout the prefecture into vibrant sites for artistic experimentation and cultural exchange. The festival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, establishing itself as a crucial platform for contemporary art in Asia.

Narrative & Themes

The Aichi Triennale consistently addresses pressing social, political, and historical issues through contemporary artistic practices. Each edition is developed around a central theme that responds to current global concerns while remaining grounded in the specific context of Japan and East Asia.

Previous editions have explored themes such as memory and oblivion, artistic freedom, migration, technological impact, and the relationship between art and politics. The festival often navigates controversial territory, fostering critical dialogue about censorship, historical trauma, and national identity in contemporary Japanese society.

The Triennale's interdisciplinary approach, which integrates visual arts with performing arts, music, and film, creates a multifaceted platform for exploring complex issues through diverse creative practices. This cross-disciplinary programming distinguishes the Aichi Triennale from many other international art exhibitions and reflects its commitment to expanding the boundaries of contemporary artistic expression.

History & Context

The inaugural Aichi Triennale was launched in 2010 as part of the cultural legacy of the 2005 World Exposition held in Aichi Prefecture. The festival was conceived as a means to revitalize the region through contemporary art and culture, drawing on Japan's growing interest in art festivals as catalysts for urban and rural renewal.

Since its inception, the Triennale has established itself as one of the most important contemporary art events in Japan and Asia, alongside the Yokohama Triennale and the Setouchi Triennale. Each edition has expanded in scope and ambition, attracting increasing international attention and participation.

Exhibition Venues

The Aichi Triennale takes place across multiple venues in Nagoya, the capital city of Aichi Prefecture, as well as in surrounding cities. The Aichi Arts Center serves as the festival's main hub, housing major exhibitions in its museum and hosting performing arts programs in its theaters.

Additional venues include the Nagoya City Art Museum, Nagoya Castle, historic buildings in the downtown area, and various public spaces throughout the participating cities. This distributed exhibition model encourages visitors to explore different areas of Aichi Prefecture, engaging with both contemporary art and local heritage.