Tokyo’s vibrant cultural landscape is set to be invigorated this November with the 14th edition of the Tokyo Art Book Fair (TABF). As Asia’s largest art book fair, this much-anticipated event will unfold at the prestigious Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT) from November 28 (Thursday) to December 1 (Sunday), 2024, offering an immersive celebration of art publishing for enthusiasts, collectors, and creatives alike.
A Hub for Art Book Lovers
Since its inception in 2009, TABF has established itself as Japan’s premier event dedicated to art books and zines. Each year, it brings together independent publishers, galleries, bookshops, and individual artists from Japan and around the globe. Attracting over 20,000 visitors annually, the fair offers a platform to discover and purchase unique publications directly from their creators, creating an enriching exchange between art enthusiasts and industry pioneers.
This year, around 300 exhibitors are expected to participate, presenting a breathtaking array of artistic expressions in book form—often more affordable and accessible than other art mediums.
Spotlight on Germany
TABF 2024 will shine a spotlight on Germany as its featured “Guest Country,” offering an in-depth exploration of the German art publishing scene. Key highlights include:
- Stefan Marx, a beloved artist in Japan known for his minimalist yet evocative designs.
- Miss Read, Berlin’s renowned art book fair.
- Esteemed publishers such as Walther König and Steidl, are celebrated for their meticulously crafted books.
- A curated book selection space featuring contributions from notable German creatives, including Michalis Pichler, curator Tenko, bookstore Do You Read Me?, and creative agency Studio Yukiko.
This cross-cultural showcase promises to provide attendees with fresh perspectives on Germany’s rich and evolving art publishing culture.
A Tribute to Ryuichi Sakamoto
Among the special exhibits, the Sakamoto Library Branch offers a preview of the late maestro’s legacy. This standalone exhibition sets the stage for the upcoming “Ryuichi Sakamoto | seeing sound, hearing time” show at MOT, starting December 21.
Engaging Activities and Special Booths
TABF 2024 will host a dynamic range of events, including:
- Talk shows, workshops, and book signings, fostering dialogue and hands-on creativity.
- Live performances and community-driven initiatives like Neighbors.
- Exclusive booths by New Balance, Hanatsubaki, BEAMS CULTUART, and THREE, adding diverse dimensions to the fair.
Visitors can look forward to a vibrant atmosphere where art book culture’s possibilities continue to expand.
Event Details
- Dates and Times:
- November 28, 2024 (Thu): 12:00–19:00
- November 29 – December 1, 2024 (Fri–Sun): 11:00–18:00
- Venue: Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo
- Address: 4-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0022
Buy a ticket here: https://tokyoartbookfair.com/en/