TRANS ARTS TOKYO 2015 Now in Progress

TRANS ARTS TOKYO 2015 is currently taking place in Tokyo's Kanda district. Sumitomo Corporation, together with three other companies, is sponsoring the event, which started October 9 and will continue through November 3.

Launched in 2012, this art project is conducted every year in the same location. From its home base where used to be the main campus of Tokyo Denki University before its relocation, activities are developed and deployed across the area, with artists and creators exhibiting works and presenting performances in streets, shops and vacant building spaces. The event also offers various public participation programs, including Kanda Sports Festival and Urban Camp Tokyo, a temporary tent city set up on the former campus, among others provided this year.

Sumitomo Corporation has been supporting the project since its launch through the provision of venues as well as sponsorship. Hirokazu Higashino, Deputy General Manager of the Materials, Supplies & Real Estate Division, spoke at the reception held on the opening day, expressing his appreciation to local communities for their longstanding cooperation, which has helped the project get bigger and better every year. He also expressed his wish to add a new dimension to the appeal of the Kanda area by promoting art-themed activities in which local residents and creators can work together in a dynamic way.

Over the past few years, Sumitomo Corporation has been involved in the redevelopment initiative for the Kanda area. One of our latest developments completed in the district is the Terrace Square, opened in May 2015. Designed to attract visitors with a relaxing and enjoyable ambience, this complex features spacious terrace structures surrounded by lush greenery. Following this, preparation for construction of a new large-scale complex has begun at the site of the former campus of Tokyo Denki University; demolition work of the former police station building has completed at the adjacent land. In addition, we participate in the art initiative and engage with local communities, so as to enhance the allure of this area.