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Shokkan: Japanese Art Through the Sense of Touch

To truly appreciate Japanese art, one must feel it.

Description

Many Japanese works of art serve simultaneously as utilitarian objects. They are meant to be used in everyday life as well as appreciated for their beauty and craftsmanship.

This exhibition, the first of its kind, will explore the way Japanese objects engage with the human sense of touch to create shokkan – a critical component in the creation, appreciation, and circulation of Japanese art. Shokkan is not just about the haptic sensation felt at one’s fingertips, but is a combination of human senses, memory, and language.

The exhibition will showcase a stunning array of Japanese objects including ceramics, furniture, textiles, paintings, and armour. Audiences will engage their senses through interactive touch experiences. Digital media, touchable objects made by contemporary artisans, and commissioned works will allow visitors to engage their senses in the exploration of shokkan. Currently in development, here are suggested themes and topics:

  • Designed to touch: texture, comfort, protection
  • Designed to handle: function
  • Tactile appreciation: ceremony, ritual, obsession
  • Representing and imagining touch: embrace, contact, emotion

Area size

200 to 500 sqm

Availability

2026 / 2027 / 2028

Hiring fee

Flexible
Package format: Collection and interpretation

Core experience

Original collection / Hands-on activities

Collections

Textiles & Costumes / Paintings Drawings & Prints / Decorative objects / Everyday objects / Ritual objects

Languages

English / French

Technical requirements

Available package options

Collection and interpretation

Add-ons

Highlights

Curatorial excellence / Treasure collection

Produced by

Original collections, Paintings, Hands on and immersive, Art and Science
Museums and Galleries

Documents

Related exhibitions

(Re)Discover

Past and upcoming venues

Presently in development. Will debut at ROM February 2026.

 

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Shokkan: Japanese Art Through the Sense of Touch

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