The Aomori Contemporary Art Center (ACAC) is a special place where nature and art coexist alongside Aomori Public University.

Surrounded by forests, this art center offers a diverse program of contemporary art in three main areas: artist-in-residence (artists stay in a particular place for a certain period of time to create artworks), exhibitions, and educational dissemination.

Designed by world-renowned architect Ando Tadao, the building was constructed in November 2001, before its opening in December of the same year, based on the concept of “invisible architecture” in which the entire building is buried in nature.

The three buildings (accommodation, creative, and exhibition) and the arcade for the four seasons are intended to stimulate artists as a “garandou” (which means empty or containing nothing) space with no fixed functions; also, the entire building, including the natural environment, such as snow, is designed to be an exhibition space.

The International Art Center Aomori has no permanent exhibition rooms. Instead, it has sculptures and other outdoor works scattered throughout the outdoor area.
Especially in the evening, the bright red sunset that falls in the forest from the creative building is like a leak in the trees and is terrific and beautiful.

It takes about 30-40 minutes by taxi or bus from central Aomori City. In fact, it is a hidden spot that many citizens have never visited. It is still highly recommended for those who love contemporary art. Please explore the world of art in a quiet forest that seems cut off from everyday life.