The 3rd Edition of Tokyo Gendai: The “Hana Artist Award” and New Challenges for the Art Fair

Eri Takane Outlines the Fair’s Mission

Tokyo Gendai has quickly established itself as a leading force in the international contemporary art world. With its third edition on the horizon, we sat down with Fair Director Eri Takane to discuss the motivations behind key new initiatives, the evolving landscape for female artists, and the fair’s vision as a platform for cultural exchange. 

From left: Magnus Renfrew, Eri Takane (courtesy of Tokyo Gendai)

Opening New Doors: The “Hana Artist Award” and Support for Emerging Artists

This year sees the launch of the inaugural “Hana Artist Award.” Takane explains the motivation:

“I have wanted to focus on supporting young artists since the very first edition, and I’m truly delighted that it’s finally becoming a reality. The award aims to boost the careers of emerging artists and lesser-known galleries. We have established a $10,000 prize, but more importantly, the winner’s work will be evaluated by internationally respected jurors. This offers recipients an invaluable opportunity to be recognized not only in Japan but on a global stage. We hope these artists and their galleries gain visibility, and that this recognition could lead, perhaps even years later, to museum exhibitions and new professional connections.”

The “Tsubomi ‘Flower Bud’” Exhibition: Gender and Contemporary Japanese Craft

Tsubomi 'Flower Bud' is a symbolic sector of Tokyo Gendai. This year, a special exhibition has been organized focusing on contemporary women artists who use traditional Japanese craft techniques.

"Every year, Tsubomi 'Flower Bud' holds an exhibition that focuses on social issues. In the first year, I held an exhibition of Japanese women artists because, as a woman, I wanted to reflect my own voice in Japan, where there is a large gender gap. This year, we are focusing on women artists who use craft techniques, and I personally selected the artists, with Mari Hashimoto acting as an advisor. While the culture of "artisans" is deeply rooted in Japanese crafts, contemporary artists place importance on their own concepts and ideas, elevating traditional techniques into new forms of expression. I hope to convey those contemporary women artists in particular are approaching crafts from their own perspectives and questioning society through their works."

International Exchange: Tokyo Gendai as a Cultural Hub

“This year, around 70 galleries are participating, with more than half coming from outside Japan. For local audiences, it’s a rare opportunity to encounter international galleries and artists; for overseas visitors, it’s a gateway to the forefront of Japanese contemporary art. We hope to foster new communities and networks through this exchange. Gradually, I feel we are building the infrastructure for a robust, international art scene in Japan.”

Overseas and technology experience --- the future of Tokyo Gendai

With more than a decade in New York and experience at Google Arts & Culture, Takane brings a unique perspective to the fair’s direction.

“During my time at Google Arts & Culture, I was responsible for archiving museum collections and promoting Japanese culture internationally. I see the art fair as another kind of infrastructure—a platform where people from diverse backgrounds can come together and build community. My overseas experiences and work with technology directly inform my approach to Tokyo Gendai. I want the fair to introduce Japanese audiences to global trends, and at the same time, share Japan’s vibrant contemporary scene with the world.”

Looking Ahead: A Long-Term Vision

As for her vision for the future, Takane is clear:

“We are just getting started. Building a meaningful platform for artists, galleries, and audiences takes time. The art world is about long-term relationships, not short-term results. I hope people will see Tokyo Gendai as a place they want to return to again and again—somewhere to grow together. Personally, balancing my roles as director and mother, I am committed to continuing this work and look forward to welcoming everyone to the fair.”

Tokyo Gendai in 2025 stands as a vibrant bridge between Japan and the world, between tradition and innovation, and between the art community and wider society. As Takane’s words reveal, at the heart of the fair is an ongoing dialogue about the future—a dialogue worth following in the years to come.