What are the ins-and-outs of running an international art fair in Japan? Asia Society Japan is pleased to welcome Yukako Yamashita, program director of Art Collaboration Kyoto (ACK), for a conversation about the challenges and innovations in running an international art fair in Japan.

Now in its fourth year, ACK has differentiated itself from more traditional art fairs by focusing on cooperation and collaboration rather than competition. Originating as a cultural initiative by the Kyoto Government, ACK aims to create long-term benefits for the art ecosystem by placing more importance on experiences over transactions and events over objects. ACK has also successfully expanded its programming to highlight not only art experiences but also unique cultural experiences intrinsic to Kyoto's rich historical and cultural heritage.

As Program Director, Yamashita has utilized her legacy from a six-generation Tea Ceremony Utensils gallery in Kyoto, along with her international art sales experience at Sotheby’s London, to create a collaborative art fair that bridges international and domestic art markets.  Come join us to witness how this convergence of tradition and innovation is shaping the future of the art world, right in the heart of Kyoto.

Event and Registration Details

August 26, 2024, 8:00 – 9:15 a.m. (JST)

• This event will be conducted in in-person and online, and registration is required.
• In-person participation is for members and guests only. Please pay your fee by credit card (Visa or Mastercard only) or at the door.
• Online participation is open to the public and free.

Speaker Bio

Yukako Yamashita
Program Director, Art Collaboration Kyoto

Yukako Yamashita obtained her MA in Art Business at Sotheby’s Institute of Art in London and interned at Sotheby’s London before joining Sotheby’s Japan, where she oversaw contemporary art sales. From 2017 to 2022, she served as the managing director of THE CLUB, an art gallery presenting international contemporary artists rarely seen in Japan.

In 2022, Yamashita was appointed Program Director of ACK and Kyoto City Growth Strategy Promotion Advisor. She bridges global and local art scenes, drawing on her deep roots in Kyoto through her family's six-generation Tea Ceremony Utensils gallery.