The special exhibition “Sensorium,” introducing works by artists who challenge new forms of artistic expression, transcending traditional boundaries between crafts and fine arts, will be held at Sennyu-ji Temple in Kyoto — an Imperial Temple known as “Mitera” and its close ties to the Japanese Imperial Family. The exhibition runs from November 13 to 16, 2025.

The term “sensorium” refers to the totality of the five senses — sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste. When people experience artworks, they revive physical or psychological experiences acquired through all five senses from their own memories, project them onto the artwork, and then integrate the new experiences gained from the encounter back into themselves. Traditionally, craftworks have emphasized the functionality, technique, and inherent characteristics of materials, while contemporary artworks have focused on form, symbolism, and emotional impact. Rather than categorizing the two, this exhibition focuses on the qualities that unite them, inviting viewers to experience a new “circuit” of sensory engagement through the human body. The textures and traces of craftsmanship inherent in materials evoke sensory memories, guiding audiences into an embodied experience that reveals new ways of seeing and feeling the world.

Curated by Hiromi Kurosawa — known for her work at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, where she has introduced both Japanese and international artists — the exhibition will feature 16 artists who use materials such as glass, paper, clay, lacquer, natural fibers, leather, and resin shaping their works through continual experimentation and refinement of technique. Visitors will also have the opportunity to reserve and purchase works during the exhibition. Organized by the Executive Committee for Art Kogei, from Japan to the World, whose initiatives have garnered high acclaim both in Japan and abroad, the event aims to further enhance the international recognition of Japanese art and craft by contributing to the expansion of its global cultural market.

Amid the rich natural surroundings and tranquil atmosphere of Sennyu-ji Temple, visitors are invited to engage all five senses in experiencing the creative expressions of Japan’s leading artists.

Artists
Kunimasa Aoki
Mikiro Ishiguro
Katsura Takasuka
Saki Tanaka
Hidenori Tsumori
Kie Terasawa
Kohei Nawa
Hiroki Niimi
Ryosuke Harashima
Shinpei Matsuzaki
Yoca Muta
Shiho Morita
Mariyo Yagi
Yuna Yagi
Moeco Yamazaki
Kazue Wakabayashi

Special Exhibition: Art Kogei, from Japan to the World “SENSORIUM”
Dates: November 13 to 16, 2025
Hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (reception closes at 4:30 pm)
Venue: Sennyu-ji Temple (27 Sennyuji Yamanouchi-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-city, Kyoto Prefecture)
Website: https://artkogei.com/

*For more details, please refer to the official website.