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SIDE CORE's 'Living road, Living space' exhibition at 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa

exhibition · 2026-04-19

At the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa, there's an exhibition called 'Living road, Living space' by the artistic group SIDE CORE. This collective, which started in Tokyo back in 2012, was founded by Sakie Takasu, Tohru Matsushita, and Taishi Nishihiro, with Kazunori Harimoto handling the video direction. They were inspired by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. Their work blends influences from graffiti and skate culture to tackle broader social issues. The exhibit links urban settings with areas affected by disasters, isolation, and economic challenges. SIDE CORE continues Japan's tradition of artist collectives, similar to the Gutai Art Association and Dumb Type, showcasing a modern take on socially aware art in Asia.

Key facts

  • SIDE CORE's exhibition 'Living road, Living space' was held at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa.
  • The collective was founded in Tokyo in 2012.
  • Founding members include Sakie Takasu, Tohru Matsushita, and Taishi Nishihiro.
  • Kazunori Harimoto is the group's video director.
  • The group's formation was prompted by reflections on the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
  • SIDE CORE collaborates with graffiti artists and skateboarders.
  • Their work connects metropolitan centers with places impacted by catastrophe, distance, and economic disparity.
  • The exhibition situates SIDE CORE within Japan's history of artist collectives like Gutai Art Association and Dumb Type.

Entities

Artists

  • Sakie Takasu
  • Tohru Matsushita
  • Taishi Nishihiro
  • Kazunori Harimoto

Institutions

  • 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa
  • Gutai Art Association
  • Dumb Type

Locations

  • Kanazawa
  • Japan
  • Tokyo

Sources