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.

The exhibition will be held at the Yokohama Museum of Art which opened in 1989, and two historical buildings: Former Daiichi Bank Yokohama Branch, completed in 1929; and Former Yokohama Raw Silk Inspection Bureau Warehouse (now KITANAKA BRICK & WHITE), completed in 1926, which houses the alternative art space BankART KAIKO. While the Yokohama Museum of Art opened in the year that marked the end of the Cold War, the two historical buildings were built in the same period as Lu Xun’s Wild Grass, published in 1927. The 8th Yokohama Triennale will use the historical legacies of the city as a stage to explore contemporary issues.

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” not only through its exhibition but also through its programs and events that will unfold during the Triennale in locations stretching from Yokohama Station to Motomachi/China Town and the Yamate district.