KOBE Biennale aims to highlight the role of art has played in the history of Kobe and, indeed, of Japan itself, and the powerful presence of art in the modern oeuvre of the city and country. It also seeks to bring the world’s attention to areas that have previously escaped wider notice, such as the wondrous spectacles that can be found in the myriad resources and characteristics of the city and the lifestyles or its people if only we care to look.

Past KOBE Biennales sought to promote deai (“meeting”, theme of 2007) of the people of Kobe and the wider world and to foster wa (“harmony”, 2009) among them. The latest version of KOBE Biennale will be held under the theme of Kira (“sparkle”) in the hope that the event will not only uphold the lofty ideals of past celebrations, but also highlight the lovely radiance of the people of Kobe and the world.

In Japanese, kira is an onomatopee, but it is not limited to describing tangible things. Indeed, it was chosen as the theme for KOBE Biennale 2011 to seek out as-yet undiscovered gems of beauty in the natural environment and the lifestyles and artistic outlooks, and to represent the sparkling beauty of those attractions once they are brought to light. It is our fervent hope that KOBE Biennale 2011 will serve to spark an interactive communication of kira, where one discovery will inspire others, eventually creating a new paradigm in Kobe, its people and arts.

KOBE Biennale 2011 is set to serve as a conduit through which to discover the radiant sparkle that we so desperately need right now, and to shine that light on the whole world starting right here in Kobe.

Official website:
http://www.kobe-biennale.jp/about/kaisai/index_e.html

* The text provided by The organizing Committee for KOBE Biennale, and The City of Kobe.

Period: Saturday, October 1 - Sunday, November 23, 2011
Venue:：Kobe Harborland, Port of Kobe(Po-ai Shiosai Park), Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art, Sannomiya / Motomachi area Others/p>