Kyoto will once again become the center of Japan's contemporary art scene with the return of Art Collaboration Kyoto (ACK), an international art fair that highlights collaboration as its defining theme. Taking place at the Kyoto International Conference Center, ACK is recognized as one of the country's leading fairs devoted to contemporary art and is distinguished by its emphasis on forging creative partnerships.
The fair is structured around two core sections. "Gallery Collaborations" pairs a Japanese gallery with an international counterpart, presenting works side by side in a shared booth. These partnerships often lead to dialogues that bridge cultural perspectives and artistic practices across borders. The second section, "Kyoto Meetings," features artists with ties to the city, showcasing the ways in which Kyoto's deep traditions and contemporary creativity intersect.
Beyond the fair itself, visitors can also experience a wide range of special exhibitions and public programs throughout Kyoto City, offering new ways to engage with contemporary art in dialogue with the city's historic backdrop. From experimental installations to talks and performances, the programming expands ACK's reach beyond the exhibition hall into the cultural fabric of Kyoto.
Supported through collaboration between the public and private sectors, ACK positions itself not only as a marketplace for art but also as a cultural platform. By bringing together local and global players, the fair underscores Kyoto's role as both a guardian of tradition and a hub for contemporary expression.
Please note: tickets need to be arranged in advance online, and this can be done here. Early bird discounts are available.
Additionally, please be aware the event hours differ each day. For 2025, the hours are as follows:
- Friday November 14th: noon–7pm
- Saturday November 15th: noon–7pm
- Sunday November 16th: 11am–5pm
