ΟΝ: The modern and the contemporary in European & Japanese Culture

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ISBN: 960-8276-24-1
Pages: 116
Dimensions: 28×28 cm
Edited by: Elias Constantopoulos

In our time, which is characterised by a tremendous speed of changes and is questioned by a number of great transformations in almost all aspects of life, the need for open and unprejudiced dialog,  is more urgent than ever.

Questions relating to the nature and the characteristics of the human and technological progress, the physiognomy of the modern and the definition of the modern arts, are of concern to all nations, in all continents. Not surprisingly, the dynamic interrelation of the past with the present, along with the historical memory and its projection to the future, is of particular concern to these nations, which enjoy a rich history and have a remarkable ancient civilization. Greeks and the whole European community seem to mutually share the same interests, as a result of the global processes. We strongly feel the need to relate ourselves to the contemporary Japanese culture, of which its main features are brightly and powerfully reflected to the ongoing global fusion.

I am convinced that the series of events, under the title “ON: the Modern and the Contemporary in European and Japanese Culture”, which is realized in the framework of the planned cultural exchanges, between the European Union and Japan, will positively contribute to the familiarization between both nations and continents.

These various events cover a wide spectrum of contemporary arts while enrich and advance the discussion about the meaning of modernism. In particular, they give the opportunity to the Greek and European creators to come closer to the Japanese public as well as the chance to spread and get inspiration from it.

I am confident that our people will positively regard this opening and will benefit from it.

Georgios A. Voulgarakis
Minister of Culture of the Hellenic Republic