Maebashi Biennale 2026’s Artists Lineup Revealed

by

Summary

  • The inaugural Maebashi Biennale will run from September 19 to December 20, 2026, across Gunma Prefecture
  • Curated by Yuko Hasegawa, it connects urban spaces with ecology and community memory
  • Over thirty global artists feature, including teamLab, Chiharu Shiota, Mika Ninagawa, among others

Okay, so I just heard about this really cool art thing happening in Japan! It’s called the Maebashi Biennale, and it’s the first one ever. Apparently, they’re bringing in artists from all over the world to totally revamp this city called Maebashi in Gunma Prefecture. Sounds like it’s gonna be a huge, awesome display of modern art – I’m already checking for travel dates!

From September 16 to December 20, 2026, the festival, led by renowned curator Yuko Hasegawa, will explore how art, nature, community, and technology can work together. It will transform unique spaces throughout the city – like old silk mills and unused buildings – into art venues. This event is a significant cultural moment for the region, establishing Maebashi as a leading center for innovative art in Japan.

This year’s festival will showcase the work of over thirty artists from around the world, with everything from large-scale sculptures to digital art and live performances. A major highlight will be a new digital installation by the acclaimed teamLab, designed to respond to the water and landscape of Maebashi. Also featured will be a stunning thread installation by Chiharu Shiota, displayed in a historic building and exploring themes of memory, relationships, and the area’s past.

The festival is gaining even more prestige with the addition of renowned photographer and filmmaker Mika Ninagawa, who will team up with the creative group EiM to create a new, large-scale work at Hauser & Wirth. This expands the festival’s range of artistic disciplines. Joining them are innovative multimedia artists Ryoji Ikeda and Anicka Yi, whose work explores the connection between nature and technology.

The Maebashi Biennale 2026 aims to build a lasting cultural foundation for the city by partnering with renowned artists and local universities. The festival will offer a variety of public events like talks, workshops, and tours, making modern art enjoyable and understandable for everyone. You can find more details on the official festival website.

We’re excited to announce the full artist lineup and program for the first Maebashi International Art Festival 2026, starting September 19th! Tickets are now on sale! You can purchase a festival pass starting today at noon (May 26th). Find more details here.

— ぐんラボ！【㊗15周年】群馬のクチコミ情報サイト (@gunlabo) May 26, 2026

Read More

2026-05-28 09:26