Space and spatialization in Japan: beween Art and Philosophy

Abstract

In some recent experiences of Japanese art, we can find an interesting and original crossing of traditional thought and modern ideas after the encounter with Western aesthetics. The dialogue between the artistic works by Shimamoto Shōzo, Lee Ufan, Suga Kishio, on one hand, and the philosophical insights of Nishida Kitarō—inspired by Buddhism and Western philosophy—on the other hand can foster a meaningful itinerary to discover the resources of Japanese words such as koto and mono, i.e. events and things. Thus, a possible path to widen the notion of space and “spatialization” can be traced and enhanced.