War and pandemic have revealed tears in the social fabric around the world, and shaken us all emotionally. As part of our ongoing mission to be a contemporary art museum that reflects the diversity of histories, societies and values across the globe, and to help find ways for us to live together, better, in 2024 the Mori Art Museum will stage two major solo exhibitions, featuring the work of Theaster Gates, and Louise Bourgeois.

A former student of urban design, ceramic, and more, Chicago-based Theaster Gates (b. 1973) is highly regarded in the international contemporary art world for his transdiciplinary practice including sculpture, installation and community revitalization projects. Recent years have seen him connecting Black and Japanese cultures within the intriguing conceptual framework of Afro-Mingei , and also at the Aichi Triennale 2022 presenting an installation after renovating the residential portion of the Former Earthenware Pipe Factory (Maruri-Toukan ) in the city of Tokoname where he had studied pottery twenty years previously. This solo exhibition, first of its size for the artist in Asia, will link Chicago, Tokoname and Tokyo in a comprehensive, illuminating guide to the artistic realm of Theaster Gates.

Louise Bourgeois (1911-2010) is known for the spider sculpture Maman at Roppongi Hills, but this will be the first large-scale Japanese exhibition of the French sculptor's work for 27 years, since 1997. Bourgeois, who moved from Paris to New York in 1938, has earned a place in art history as a pioneering female artist whose work has enjoyed renewed appreciation in recent years, and as simply one of the 20th century's leading sculptors. Her practice entwining emotions from love to jealousy, anger and unease resonates just as strongly with our own feelings today.

We hope these two exhibitions will bring about the much-needed energy to mend tears in the social fabric and join hearts and minds, as we strive toward recovery and rebirth.

Kataoka Mami, Director, Mori Art Museum