The Yokohama Triennale is an international exhibition of contemporary art held in Yokohama once every three years. The exhibition features both internationally renowned and up-and-coming artists, and presents the latest trends and expressions in contemporary art. Since its inauguration in 2001, the Yokohama Triennale has addressed the relationships between Japan and the world, and the individual and society, and reexamined the social role of art from a variety of perspectives, in response to a world in constant flux.

The theme of the 8th Yokohama Triennale is “Wild Grass: Our Lives,” taken from the Chinese writer Lu Xun’s (1881– 1936) anthology Wild Grass, published in 1927. Lu Xun penned the 23 essays compiled in this book from 1924 to 1926, during the turbulent period in Chinese history as well as his personal life, and through it found a thin thread of hope in times of despair. “Wild Grass” is a metaphor celebrating our lives, which are fragile and defenseless but strong and resilient at the same time. It is a metaphor for our lives fraught with many challenges, such as the pandemic, climate change, war in Ukraine, economic disparities, as well as rampant fake news and questions on moral responsibilities on digital platforms.

Starting from the period of Lu Xun, the exhibition traces several historical moments, such as the end of the Cold War, that have consequently shaped the oppressive conditions we face today. By juxtaposing works by contemporary artists from different parts of the world with historical artworks, we can reflect on our way of life and search for hope in our future. With a goal to be one of the best beginner’s guides to contemporary art, the 8th edition of Yokohama Triennale will strive to engage the public in the spirit of “Wild Grass.”