Akiko Sakamoto | In the Next 'Pre-Disaster' Era – Changes Over the Past 10 Years and the Exhibition 'The 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake and Cultural Prescriptions: When My Heart Began to Stir'
Ten years after the Kumamoto earthquake, the Kumamoto City Museum of Contemporary Art is holding an exhibition reflecting on the 'post-disaster' period and aiming for mental recovery through culture.Summary
Ten years have passed since the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, and the Kumamoto City Museum of Contemporary Art has redefined its role by learning from the experience. Initially focused on preserving artworks and reopening quickly, the museum recognized the importance of mental care and community regeneration in the aftermath of the disaster. The current exhibition, “The 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake and Cultural Prescriptions: When My Heart Began to Stir,” showcases works that share experiences from Fukushima and Kumamoto, as well as episodes submitted by citizens, encouraging dialogue and empathy among visitors. This exhibition is also linked to a new initiative called “cultural prescriptions,” which views cultural activities as “essential elements for health” and aims to enhance people’s well-being. The museum has evolved into a place that welcomes diverse people, supports mental recovery, and continues to create the future as a space for mutual care.
(Source：artscape)