Step into the world of Ryuichi Sakamoto, one of Japan’s most influential musicians, in the exhibition Ryuichi Sakamoto | Seeing Sound, Hearing Time at the Tokyo Museum of Contemporary Art. This marks the first large-scale exhibition in Japan since his passing in 2023, offering a rare glimpse into his artistic journey. The exhibit showcases a collection of his collaborations with both Japanese and international artists, along with newly created works made specifically for this event.
However, don’t expect to hear iconic pieces like “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence” or tracks from YMO. Instead, this exhibition challenges your expectations, offering not beautifully crafted “music” but rather, a stoic exploration of “sound.” Through each installation, you’ll encounter Sakamoto’s deep conviction and dedication to his thematic exploration—captured in the exhibition’s title itself: Seeing Sound, Hearing Time.
Set across multiple spaces, from the first floor to the underground galleries and outdoor areas, the exhibition invites you to dive as deep as you wish. Whether you spend a quick 30 minutes or lose yourself for hours, this is an experience that will resonate with you long after you leave. And perhaps, if you visit at the right pace, you may find a connection that lasts a lifetime.
Let’s explore some of the standout works that make this exhibition truly unforgettable.
INDEX
