Mito's Contemporary Art Center was forced to close its doors after suffering some damage due to the March 11 earthquake, but it has reopened for its annual "Cafe in Mito" — now in its ninth year. The event's name stands for "Communicable Action for Everyday," and its aim is to present art for the masses in an informal environment.
This year's exhibition seeks to reemphasize that original aim through a grand collaboration with a throng of creators the art center has worked with over the past 20 years. Top artists whose works are returning include ones from the visually impressive duo Christo and Jean-Claude, from Mika Ninagawa, famed for her brightly colored editorial photographs of flowers and landscapes, and examples of the intricate work of internationally renowned artist Yamaguchi Akira.
The Contemporary Art Center, Art Tower Mito, (029) 227-8120; Goken-cho, Mito-shi, Ibaraki; four stops on the bus from Mito Station. 9.30 a.m.-6 p.m. (last entry 3.30 p.m.), Closed Mon. ¥800, (free entry on Wed). For more information, visit www.arttowermito.or.jp.
