In a groundbreaking collaboration, Edna Dumas, Japanese actor Yuta Nakano, and German entrepreneur Lothar Eckstein have unveiled plans for space Un, a Tokyo-based platform dedicated to championing contemporary African art and also fostering cultural exchange between Japan and Africa. Scheduled to open on April 19th and 20th, 2024, in Tokyo’s vibrant Aoyama district, space Un is set to showcase commercial exhibitions, public programs, and artist residencies.
For Edna Dumas, a fervent advocate of contemporary African art and artists, this collaboration represents a natural progression. With a profound dedication to promoting African artistic expression and facilitating cross-cultural dialogue, Dumas spearheads the launch of space Un, poised to become a dynamic hub for artistic innovation.
space Un, a newly conceived arts and culture venue in Tokyo, focuses on Contemporary African Art and cultural exchange between Japan and African countries. Initiated by Ms. Edna Dumas, the space originates from her passion for Contemporary African Art and her desire to support African artists. It offers a unique platform in both Japan and the wider Asia region to give visibility to Contemporary African Art, hosting exhibitions showcasing artists and artworks from the collection of Ms. Dumas as well as curating commercial shows. Co-founded by actor and artist Yuta Nakano and cultural entrepreneur Lothar Eckstein, space Un embraces cross-disciplinary programming beyond visual arts, ranging from music events to readings. As the space solidifies its reputation, activities will expand to include artist residencies, grants, publications, launching limited edition artworks, and more.
Located in the Aoyama area of Tokyo and designed by architect Mr. Go Hasegawa, space Un embodies Japanese elements of creative and efficient use of space as well as Ms. Dumas’ African heritage, laying the foundation for the dialogue between Japanese and African cultures across the continent that the venue seeks to enhance.
“The idea for setting up space Un came out of realizing the importance of creating a unique platform in both Japan and the wider Asia region to give visibility to Contemporary African Art and to create a bridge between cultures,” expressed Dumas in a statement.
The timing of space Un’s inauguration aligns with the burgeoning anticipation surrounding Japan’s art market, buoyed by the influx of international entities further establishing their presence in Tokyo. Notably, mega-gallery Pace and French counterpart Ceysson & Bénétière have set the stage for a burgeoning art scene in the city.
Nestled in the culturally rich enclave of Aoyama, space Un will inhabit a meticulously designed structure by architect Go Hasegawa, strategically positioned amidst Tokyo’s prominent artistic landmarks.
Functioning as a hybrid art platform, space Un will seamlessly integrate elements of a commercial gallery with immersive public engagement initiatives as well as artist residencies. The space anticipates hosting a diverse array of exhibitions, encompassing both commercial showcases and non-commercial presentations. Complementing these exhibitions are interdisciplinary public programs, encompassing artist talks, workshops, musical performances, film screenings, and educational endeavors.
The inaugural exhibition, “Anastomosis,” serves as a testament to space Un’s commitment to artistic innovation. Culminating from the newly established residency program, this showcase features works by Senegalese artist Aliou Diack, reflecting upon the intrinsic connections between Senegal and Japan.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Diack remarked, “There are lots of similarities shared between Senegal and Japan. I think above all, we share this true appreciation for the Earth, a true recognition and gratitude for all it gives us.”
As he garners recognition on the global stage, including a nomination to represent Senegal at the prestigious Biennale in Dakar, Diack’s artistic odyssey continues to captivate audiences worldwide, also offering a poignant reminder of our shared kinship with the natural world.
As space Un prepares to embark on its transformative journey, it stands poised to redefine Tokyo’s artistic landscape, fostering inclusivity, dialogue, and appreciation for contemporary African art on a global scale.
