Yokohama Triennale 2011, which opened on August 6, came to a successful conclusion on November 6. With only a 10 month period for preparations, the Great East Japan Earthquake in March, and restrictions on power usage for much of the event, the triennale was held in the face of many unexpected difficulties, and consequently not everything could be done as we would have liked. Nevertheless, with very generous support from many quarters, we were able to bring the event to a conclusion and, along the way, attract many more visitors than initially expected.
For this, the fourth edition of the triennale, Yokohama Museum of Art was made one of the main venues, and I think this made it a more accessible event for the public.
As the installation began under hot July skies, twelve sculptures by Ugo RONDINONE were set up outside the museum and they immediately captured the attention of passersby, who often stopped to snap photos with their mobile phones. In this way, works that were installed outdoors helped to rouse interest in the event amongst all kinds of people, from children to adults. And, through the exhibits of artworks by 77 artists and groups at the museum, NYK Waterfront Warehouse (BankART Studio NYK), and other venues in the surrounding areas, I think we were able to convey to the public the attractiveness of contemporary art’s dynamic perspectives and diverse expressive styles.
I think it is fair to say that the question posed in the event’s title, “OUR MAGIC HOUR‐How Much of the World Can We Know?” took on even greater significance in the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake. It is clear that the nature of the world in which we live defies simplistic interpretation.
Accepting this reality, we must shake off our established ways of seeing, we must acquire knowledge of different value systems and we must learn to live together.
In order to emerge from these difficult circumstances and move toward a better life, we must open the door to different viewpoints. And it is my hope that Yokohama Triennale 2011 provided an opportunity to do just that.
Finally, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the artists; the collectors, museums and galleries who lent us artworks; the corporations, organizations, and individuals who provided cooperation and support; and everyone else who helped make Yokohama Triennale 2011 possible.
OSAKA Eriko
Director General
Yokohama Triennale 2011
