AOTO Art is pleased to announce its opening in Ashiya, Japan.
To mark the opening, we present our inaugural exhibition, The Sound of A.
One of the meanings embedded in the name “AOTO” is the sound “A” — a resonance that signifies a beginning.
This exhibition brings together the work of artist Tomoko Inagaki and the Marukawa Collection, creating a space for artistic experimentation.
It features works by Inagaki, who directs AOTO Art, alongside a group exhibition drawn from the Marukawa Collection, which has carefully assembled Japanese photography from the prewar period to the present, featuring artists active in Japan and internationally.
In addition, a chandelier work by Yuichi Higashionna, permanently installed at the entrance, will be presented to the public for the first time, bringing a new presence into the space.
AOTO Art is conceived around the theme “Art into Life.”
It is not only a place to view artworks, but a place where encounters with art can shift one’s perspective on everyday life.
Every other Sunday, we also offer a participatory program, TSUKURU, where visitors are invited to engage in creative practice.
From Ashiya, a new current in art begins — marked by the sound of a beginning.
We invite you to experience this moment of emergence.
Artist:
Tomoko Inagaki, Keijiro Kai, Hiromi Kakimoto, Shunsuke Kano, THE COPY TRAVELLERS, Ayano Sudo, Keiko Nomura, Mikiko Hara, Yu Yamauchi, Jonathan Hammer
Exhibition Overview
Exhibition Details
Dates: Nov 29, 2025 – Feb 1, 2026
Opening Hours: Sat & Sun, 13:00–18:00
Venue: AOTO Art (20-8 Yamate-cho, Ashiya, Hyogo, Japan)
Admission: Free
By appointment only from Nov 30 onward
Opening Reception: Nov 29, 2025, 15:30–17:00
Permanent Installation: Yuichi Higashionna
With the cooperation of: The Third Gallery Aya
