June 1, 2024 – May 18, 2025
Open everyday *Closed during installation
Venue: Nakamura Keith Haring Collection
10249-7 Kobuchizawa, Hokuto, Yamanashi 4080044 JAPAN
Keith Haring (1958-1990), a leading artist of American art in the 1980s, was renowned for his bright and upbeat style. Yet, beneath the surface of his engaging work lies a profound insight into societal dynamics. This exhibition aims to showcase Haring’s ability to depict society in ways that are sometimes humorous, at other times scathingly critical, prompting the audience to reflect on the direction of our collective future. Through his art, Haring continuously sent messages advocating for peace and freedom, demonstrating his commitment to engaging with and influencing the social discourse of his time.
Haring’s childhood in the 1960s coincided with the “Space Age,” a period marked by the technological rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union. This era saw advancements in space exploration and information technology, laying the foundation for modern-day tech. The era’s bright, primary colors, showcased on newly popularized color TVs, and the televised Vietnam War profoundly influenced Haring. His interest in global events grew as he absorbed information from television and magazines, which later manifested in the frequent theme of violence in his art.
In the 1980s, when Haring’s career took off, the world was amidst a significant nuclear arms race, especially in the United States. In June 1982, in response to the escalating arms race, the largest anti-nuclear demonstration in U.S. history took place. For this event, Haring created the “Poster for Nuclear Disarmament,” distributing 20,000 copies in Central Park to advocate for disarmament. Throughout his life, Haring continued exploring various mediums and methods to deliver his messages, focusing on themes of peace and freedom.
In 1988, Haring was involved with the ‘HIROSHIMA ’88′ charity concert for the construction of an atomic bomb victims’ home. His visit to Hiroshima, the first city to suffer an atomic bombing, deeply moved him. Visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, he wrote in his journal: “Who could ever want this to happen again? To anyone?” This quote underlines the exhibition’s theme. Today, as we continue to witness ongoing wars and confront the presence of over 12,000 nuclear warheads around the world, we approach the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. This backdrop serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of atomic bombs and underscores the ongoing struggle for peace, highlighting the pressing need to reflect on the contemporary meanings of “peace” and “freedom.”
Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (Last admission 4:30 pm)
Admission fee: Adult ¥1,500 / Student (Over 16 Years Old) ¥800 / Visitors with disabilities ¥600 / Under 15 Years Old Free
*Please show your ID for discount.
Organized by Nakamura Keith Haring Collection
Supported by U.S. Embassy, Tokyo, Yamanashi Prefecture, Yamanashi Prefectural Board of Education, Hokuto City, Hokuto City Board of Education