civic creative base tokyo is future-focused creative hub

the creative hub at Civic Creative Base Tokyo

In the electric heart of the Shibuya district, where the cityscape’s neon lights pulses with a distinctly futuristic energy, the Civic Creative Base Tokyo (CCBT) emerges as a center for artistic and digital exploration. Within the metropolis that has sparked the imaginations of cyberpunk writers and tech visionaries, CCBT has evolved into a central hub where both local and global minds can engage in conversations and workshops that peer into the digital future. Hosting the ‘Art Incubation Program,’ the space also provides support for Japan’s rising creatives to implement and exhibit works on the world’s emerging technologies.

(above) Civic Creative Base Tokyo is a center for conversations and workshops that peer into the digital future (photo: Kazuhiko Asami, God Scorpion, Yoshidayamar ‘AUGMENTED SITUATION D'(2023) photo by Tada (YUKAI）

(banner) exhibition view of MPLUSPLUS ‘Embodiment++,’ photo by Kabe Sohei

all images courtesy of Civic Creative Base Tokyo

Situated on Shibuya Koen-dori, CCBT‘s open layout beckons passersby to peer into its creative space. Its creative labs and studios are situated in the space’s flexible layout, making it able to host diverse, international programming. For the young and the old, the beginner and the expert, CCBT’s hands-on workshops invite experts utilizing state-of-the-art digital fabrication equipment to unlock ideas and creations among the participants. Additionally, their ‘camps’ and lectures unite artists, engineers, researchers, and the public to interact through an interdisciplinary forum.

situated on Shibuya Koen-dori, CCBT’s open layout beckons passersby to peer into its creative space

the art incubation program at CCBT

In 2022, CCBT’s Art Incubation Program showcased Artist Fellows employing technology to transform perspectives. Within the SIDE CORE series, creatives embraced the viewpoint of skateboarders to reimagine an empty space adjacent to Meguro Observation Well, constructing the concept of an imaginary underground city. Furthermore, fellows Tomo Kihara and Playfool introduced the ‘Deviation Game’ project, prompting players to craft images recognizable to humans but not to AI. The space not only offers opportunities for emerging talents to embark on fresh projects but also opens up the creative process to the public, encouraging diverse forms of artistic expression, exploration, and action that enrich Tokyo’s cultural tapestry.

as CCBT artist fellows, Tomo Kihara and Playfool made the ‘Deviation Game,’ prompting players to craft images recognizable to humans but not AI

CCBT Artist Fellows conduct creative activities and R&D, showcasing results within the venue and across Tokyo. In addition to their projects, they also engage the public through hands-on workshops, lectures, and interactive events. Fellows receive mentorship for technical advice, up to ¥10 million for production costs, and equipment use. When it comes time to exhibit their work, they will receive assistance with venue operations, extensive promotion, and artwork installation. Beyond developing their experimental projects, fellows contribute to building a collaborative platform for co-creating the future. In January 2024, CCBT publishes the projects completed by their 2023 CCBT Artist Fellows – discover the works here.

for the young and the old, the beginner and the expert, CCBT’s hands-on workshops invite all types of participants. (photo ‘Civic Creative Base Tokyo Opening Event: Future Tokyo Sports Day Competitions’ (2022) , photo: Motoi Sato

fellows in the Art Incubation Program receive mentorship, up to ¥10 million for production costs, and equipment use [photo SIDE CORE ‘rode work ver. under city’ (2023) photo by Tada (YUKAI)]