KyOtOmAsOn MArAthOn ! 京トマソン マラソン

This exhibition visually traces the birth of the concept of tomason with focus on Genpei Akasegawa (1937–2014), the central figure of this aesthetic, philosophical, editorial, and human adventure. It draws public attention to the activities of the Hyperart-tomason Observation Center and the Street Observation Society (ROJO).

The exhibition will be primarily held at the KYOTO ART CENTER, as part of the KYOTO ART CENTER’s 25th anniversary celebrations. Many archival materials—including numerous unpublished and uncatalogued photographs and videos— introduce the merits of urban observation to the public. Educational workshops, readings, and gatherings encourage KYOTOGRAPHIE and KG＋ visitors to explore the city and discover their own tomason “urban performances.” Visitors are encouraged to post their images on Instagram with the hashtag, which will then be compiled into an interactive ‘kYoToMaSoN MAP’ on display at the KYOTO ART CENTER.

A closing public presentation brings together the hyperart-tomason and other urban items discovered by visitors throughout the city during the festival, and a symposium will be held in honour of Genpei Akasegawa and to celebrate all involved in this adventure. These events will take place at the Tokusho-ji Temple, a partner of the exhibition.

Additionally, the exhibition highlights Genpei Akasegawa’s influence on contemporary artistic practices by involving several young visual artists, fostering a dialogue between their artworks and the presented documents and events.