Okayama Art Summit is an international exhibition of contemporary art which is held every 3 years in Okayama city, Japan and the first exhibition was held in 2016. Okayama Art Summit builds on the rich historical legacy and cultural heritage of the city. Various historical and cultural facilities in the area around Okayama Castle and Okayama Korakuen Garden have been the venues for exhibiting works by world-class contemporary artists.
Okayama sits within western Japan’s Setouchi region, which is increasingly recognised for such art attractions as the Ohara Museum of Art, the Naoshima “art island,” and the popular contemporary art festival Setouchi Triennale.
Many in the crowded field of art biennales and triennales struggle to find alternatives to conventional, curator-led exhibitions. Okayama Art Summit stands out as an experiment directed by internationally renowned artists.
Okayama Art Summit 2016（Inaugural exhibition)
October 9–November 27, 2016
Artistic Director: Liam Gillick
Theme: Development
Participating artists/exhibits: 31 individuals and groups from 16 countries/52 exhibits
Okayama Art Summit 2019（Second exhibition)
September 27–November 24, 2019
Artistic Director: Pierre Huyghe
Theme: IF THE SNAKE
Participating artists/exhibits: 18 individuals and groups from 9 countries/38 exhibits
Okayama Art Summit 2022（Third exhibition）
September 30–November 27, 2022
Artistic Director: Rirkrit Tiravanija
Theme: Do we dream under the same sky
Participating artists/exhibits: 28 individuals and groups from 13 countries/105 exhibits