As the cherry blossoms end their bloom in Kyoto, the city geared up for Kyotographie 2024, Japan's premier international photography festival. Running from April 13 to May 12, this festival isn’t just an exhibition; it’s an exploration of the intersection between Kyoto's rich heritage and contemporary global culture.
Claudia Andujar, Collective house near the Catholic mission on the Catrimani River, Roraima state, 1976. Mineral pigment print, from infrared film. (68.5 x 102.5 cm). Instituto Moreira Salles Collection
This year, Kyotographie celebrates its 12th anniversary under the theme "SOURCE," delving into beginnings, origins, and the creative processes that fuel both life and art. The festival will showcase the work of 13 artists from 10 countries, using the city itself as a backdrop. Visitors will travel from one venue to another, each chosen for its unique character and historical significance—from the tranquil Ryosokuin Zen Temple to the bustling streets of Demachi Masugata Shopping Street.
Installation view ©︎ Takeshi Asano-KYOTOGRAPHIE 2023
The exhibitions are thoughtfully integrated with their venues, turning each space into a part of the narrative. Historic sites like Nijo Castle and the Museum of Kyoto Annex will host installations that reflect on their storied pasts, while more modern locations like DELTA serve as canvases for cutting-edge artistic expressions.
Children Transform the Sheep for Eid al-Adha into a Playground in Casablanca. Photograph by Yassine Alaoui Ismail
Access to the festival is ticketed, with several options available. A general passport, which grants one-time entry to each exhibition, is priced at ¥5,500 if booked in advance. For those looking to dive deeper, a ¥15,000 passport offers unlimited access and priority entry. Tickets can be purchased online (here), making it easy to plan your visit.
For updates and glimpses behind the scenes, follow Kyotographie on social media. Engage with the festival community, share your experiences, and see how others are interacting with the art. It’s a great way to see the festival through others' eyes and add to the collective experience.
Kyotographie 2024 is more than just a photography festival. It's a cultural journey that invites you to explore Kyoto through the lens of artists from around the world, blending the historical with the contemporary in a city known for its timeless beauty.
Claudia Andujar, Susi Korihana thëri, Catrimani, 1972–1974. Mineral pigment print from infrared film. (68.5 x 102.5 cm). Instituto Moreira Salles Collection
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