Ikigai

ARC – Art Revisited Collective invites visual artists to participate in an international exhibition based on the concept of Ikigai. The exhibition is part of the collective’s ongoing initiative “New Symbols” and is the 4th in the series under this title. The official languages of the exhibition are Greek and English, and a commemorative catalog in digital format will be published in both languages. The exhibition will also be available internationally online through the ARTgrID platform for one month.

Organizational Support: ARTgrID
Exhibition Curator: Paris Kapralos

Theme and Types of Work. Submissions are welcome for works of painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, collage, calligraphy, digital art, and photography. The works can engage with the theme in any way the artist deems suitable.

Conceptual Framework. Ikigai, a concept rooted in Japanese culture and philosophy, represents the pursuit of purpose and meaning in life and serves as a valuable compass in the modern world. The word is complex and can only be translated descriptively, meaning “a reason for living.” Combining personal values with practical approaches, it embodies a balance between four pillars: what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Emerging from Zen tradition and macrobiotic philosophy, Ikigai is associated with inner peace. For the Japanese, it is a central element of daily life, offering a holistic approach that combines happiness, practicality, harmonious societal connection, and spiritual fulfillment.

Historically, the concept appears in Japanese literature during the Heian period (794–1185 AD). In contemporary times, Ikigai remains a cornerstone of Japanese culture, offering a framework for organizing life and addressing everyday challenges. Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, authors of the book “Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life,” highlight the value of Ikigai for well-being and longevity, proposing principles such as active living, connection with nature, and pursuing personal passion. At its core, Ikigai invites individuals to find their unique balance, focusing on what gives meaning to their lives. This philosophy provides a valuable tool for addressing modern-world challenges, fostering fulfillment, happiness, and connection with oneself and society.