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Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

Cultural figures oppose consolidation of national museums

Japan's artists and cultural figures are concerned that the efficiency pursued by the government in the field of arts will lead to decline of the nation's arts and culture.

On November 9, Hirayama Ikuo (president, Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music) and Takashina Shuji (director, Ohara Museum of Art) submitted a statement criticizing the government for trying to integrate national museums and galleries to the minister of education and culture as well as the commissioner of Cultural Affairs Agency.

Pointing out that arts "cannot be promoted by market forces, efficiency, or profitability," the statement and protests are against the move to consolidate national museums, galleries, and research institutes for cultural properties as well as the move to consign these operations to the private sector.

Citing the transition of national entities to independent administrative corporations and the process of their integrations five years ago, the statement argues that further integration will cause the loss of diversity of cultural facilities. It instead calls for the improvement of research activities and personnel resources such as curators.

This statement is supported by 36 public figures, including architect Ando Tadao and Nobel Prize winner physicist Koshiba Masatoshi. -- Akahata, November 10, 2005