The Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT) is hosting a remarkable tribute to one of Japan’s most iconic and innovative artists with the exhibition Ryuichi Sakamoto | seeing sound, hearing time. Running now at MOT, this exhibition celebrates the unparalleled career of composer, artist, and activist Ryuichi Sakamoto (坂本龍一) (1952–2023), showcasing his groundbreaking contributions to music, art, and environmental activism.

A Legacy in Sound and Vision

Ryuichi Sakamoto, who gained international acclaim for his work with Yellow Magic Orchestra and as a composer for award-winning film scores, such as The Last Emperor and Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence, transcended traditional boundaries between music and visual art. In the 2000s, he began exploring immersive sound installations, creating multisensory experiences that merged sound, space, and technology.

This exhibition at MOT is the first comprehensive retrospective of Sakamoto’s large-scale installation works in Japan, featuring some of his most influential projects as well as new works envisioned before his passing. These installations not only highlight his pioneering artistry but also embody his deep commitment to pushing creative boundaries.

Highlights of the Exhibition

The exhibition spans multiple floors of the museum and extends to its outdoor spaces, reflecting the depth and diversity of Sakamoto’s artistic collaborations. Key installations include:

• “TIME TIME” (2024): A collaboration with Shiro Takatani, this new work explores the ephemeral nature of time.
• “LIFE–fluid, invisible, inaudible…” (2007): A deeply immersive piece showcasing the fluid interplay of sound and visuals.
• “Sensing Streams 2024” (Outdoor): Created with Daito Manabe, this outdoor installation integrates cutting-edge technology to make the inaudible tangible.
• “async–first light” (2017): A collaboration with Apichatpong Weerasethakul, blending haunting soundscapes with dreamlike imagery.
• Fog Sculpture #47662: A collaboration with Fujiko Nakaya, transforming the museum’s Sunken Terrace into a living, breathing artwork of fog and sound.

A Visionary Collaborator

Sakamoto’s artistic legacy is also a testament to his collaborative spirit. This exhibition features works developed with renowned artists, including Shiro Takatani, Daito Manabe, Carsten Nicolai, and Apichatpong Weerasethakul. Their combined efforts reflect Sakamoto’s ability to transcend artistic disciplines and inspire groundbreaking creativity.

Exhibition Details

Venue: Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo

Location: 4-chōme-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto City, Tokyo

Schedule: Dec 21 (Sat) 2024 – Mar 30 (Sun) 2025

Closed: Mondays (except 13 Jan and 24 Feb), New Year’s Holidays (from 28 Dec to 1 Jan 2025), 14 Jan, and 25 Feb

Hours: 10:00 – 18:00

Admission: Adults – 2,400 yen; University & College Students; Over 65 – 1,700 yen; High school & Junior High School Students – 960 yen; Elementary School Students & Younger – free

More Information: https://www.mot-art-museum.jp/en/exhibitions/RS/