The "Fukuoka Art Next (FaN)" project was initiated to integrate more art into daily life and support artists. This September, the city will once again host "FaN Week," an event that takes place at various locations across Fukuoka City. Now in its third year, FaN Week offers a range of experiences—from viewing contemporary Asian art and curated collections to collaborating with artists on new works and purchasing pieces at a highly anticipated art fair. It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover your favorite artists and artworks.
Dates: September 14–29
Venues: Fukuoka Art Museum, Fukuoka Asian Art Museum, Fukuoka Castle Ruins, Artist Cafe Fukuoka, and more.
1. Collectors III: Turning the World
This special exhibition provides a rare glimpse into the collections of two art enthusiasts who actively acquire works by contemporary artists. Two collectors—Kankuro Ueshima, Director of the Ueshima Museum, and Takafumi Takahashi, Chairman of BrainPad Inc.—will present 24 representative pieces from their private collections. The simultaneous Nishi-Nippon City Bank Collection Exhibition will feature works from the late Tsukasa Shijima, a renowned collector and former bank president with a deep passion for contemporary art.
Dates: September 14 ~ October 14
Venue: Special Exhibition Room, 2nd Floor, Fukuoka Art Museum
Admission: ¥200 for adults, ¥150 for HS and college students, free for JHS and younger.
2. Fukuoka Castle Art Project: Electromagnetic Bon Dance
Led by artist and musician Ei Wada, "Electronicos Fantasticos!" transforms old household appliances into musical instruments. Workshops and open rehearsals leading up to the event will involve local residents in the creative process. On the day of the performance, a traditional Japanese summer event, the Bon Dance, will be reenacted with a twist. A stage will be set up at the Fukuoka Castle ruins, where musicians will play these unconventional instruments, and dancers will perform the Bon Dance. Attendees are free to watch or join in the fun.
Date: September 22 (Rain Date: September 21)
Venue: Maizuru Park, San-no-maru Square
Admission: Free
3. Fukuoka Castle Art Project: Fukuoka Contemporary Artists File 2024
Two artists based in Fukuoka, both recipients of the Fukuoka Art Award and recognized for their promising futures, will hold solo exhibitions at the Fukuoka Castle ruins. Soh Souen will present works that explore life and its relationship with the body, while Seiko Yamamoto will showcase pieces inspired by her childhood experiences in a New Town area. The artworks, created in collaboration with participants, will engage all five senses, providing a unique sensory experience.
Dates: September 14 ~ 29
Venue: Around Fukuoka Castle (Shimonohashi Gate and Den-Shiomi Yagura)
Admission: Free
4. Fukuoka Asian Art Museum Artist-in-Residence Exhibition: Between Sky and Earth
Each year, the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum hosts artists from around the world through its Artist-in-Residence program. This year's exhibition features works created by six artists from Indonesia, Pakistan, Kanagawa, and Fukuoka during their stay in the city. The artists engaged with the local community through workshops and other events, and the exhibition will include gallery talks.
Dates: September 14 ~ 29
Venue: Artist Cafe Fukuoka Admission: Free
5. Fukuoka Asian Art Museum 25th Anniversary Collection Exhibition: Best Collection II – Gentle Resistance
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum presents the second installment of its Best Collection exhibition, showcasing the works of eight star artists who have challenged traditional concepts of art with sharp criticism and innovative ideas. Don’t miss the newly acquired "Camel" by the maverick Chinese artist Huang Yong Ping. The exhibition highlights the power of contemporary Asian art.
Dates: September 14, 2024 ~ April 8, 2025
Venue: Asia Gallery, 7th Floor, Fukuoka Asian Art Museum
Admission: ¥200 for adults, ¥150 for HS and college students, free for JHS and younger.
6. ART FAIR ASIA FUKUOKA 2024
Now in its ninth year, Art Fair Asia Fukuoka is the only art fair in Japan with an Asian focus. About 90 galleries from Japan and abroad will participate, showcasing and selling works by Asian and Kyushu-based artists. The fair will also feature special exhibitions in collaboration with museums, universities, corporations, and other art fairs, offering perspectives beyond the gallery walls. Some artists will be present at the event as well!
Dates: September 20 ~ 22
Venue: Fukuoka Kokusai Center
Admission: ¥2,500 for advance tickets, ¥3,000 for tickets at the door (both are three-day passes).
In addition to these six main events, the "Fukuoka Wall Art Project 2024," which transforms construction site walls into canvases for artists, and various other art-related events will take place at department stores and galleries in Tenjin and Hakata. Step out into the streets of Fukuoka and immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene!