In recent years, Japanese artist Keiichi Tanaami has seen a surge in positive critical reappraisal. His first large-scale retrospective exhibition, ‘Keiichi Tanaami: Adventures in Memory’ opened at the National Art Center, Tokyo, on August 7, 2024.
For over 60 years, Keiichi Tanaami has engaged in a wide range of creative fields, including graphic design, collage, painting, sculpture, experimental video art, and installations. In this exhibition, the space is entirely filled, featuring 500 works including the debut of his latest pieces. Visitors are invited to fully immerse themselves in Tanaami’s world and explore every detail of his extensive collection.
At the entrance of the exhibition hall, a striking new installation titled ‘A Hundred Bridges’ greets visitors. This towering bridge serves as a metaphor, connecting the secular with the sacred and the spiritual with the earthly.
‘Keiichi Tanaami: Adventure in Memory’ at the National Art Center, Tokyo, 2024. Exhibition view. Photo by Noriko Yamamoto.
Exclusive Merch to Commemorate the Exhibition
In the special shop, you’ll find a range of original merchandise featuring Keiichi Tanaami’s whimsical motifs and vibrant colors. You’ll find everything from classic postcards and posters to T-shirts, tote bags, and embroidered patches—each item makes a strong impression and could also be ideal as a gift. Additionally, new items are expected to be added throughout the exhibition.
Brand Collaborations
■Mattel Creations × Keiichi Tanaami
Keiichi Tanaami’s collaborations with three popular Mattel brands—Barbie®️, UNO™️, and Magic 8 Ball™️
■TTT –The Tanaami Tarot– by Shueisha Manga Art Heritage
These tarot cards feature lenticular printing, which creates a 3D effect and changes the image when viewed from different angles. Some cards also include images from the exclusive collaboration ‘TANAAMI!! AKATSUKA!!’ with Fujio Akatsuka.
■adidas Originals by Tanaami
The ‘adidas Originals by Tanaami’ collaboration features Adidas’s classic ADILETTE sandals. This item is inspired by the distinctive artwork created by Keiichi Tanaami for their first collaboration in 2019.
■Keiichi Tanaami × NEW ERA
The designs feature the NEW ERA text expressed through original artwork by Keiichi Tanaami. The collection includes four models, with the iconic [59FIFTY®] baseball cap as the centerpiece, along with apparel.
■Keiichi Tanaami × BEAMS CULTUART
This collection showcases Keiichi Tanaami’s iconic ‘Laughing Spider’ series, featuring a variety of items such as T-shirts, caps, and blankets.
The exclusive merch adds a tangible layer to the experience, featuring bold, psychedelic designs that are sure to inspire. This exhibition highlights Keiichi Tanaami’s prominence in contemporary art and offers a valuable opportunity to immerse yourself in his world, exploring how the artist transcends specific genres and conventional boundaries.
Keiichi Tanaami: Adventures in Memory
Venue: National Art Center, Tokyo, Exhibition Room 1E
Dates: August 7, 2024 (Wednesday) – November 11, 2024 (Monday)
Closed: Every Tuesday
Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 8:00 PM
Last admission 30 minutes before closing
Admission:
General: ¥2,000
University Students: ¥1,400
High School Students: ¥1,000
Free admission for middle school students and younger.
Free admission for visitors with disabilities (including one accompanying person).
Exhibition Website：https://www.nact.jp/english/exhibition_special/2024/keiichitanaami/
