Artist Activities: 50 Years of Being a Foreigner: A Conversation Between Eiko Otake and Tatsu Aoki

From the organizers:

In this conversation, we will explore the underground art scene in postwar Japan during the 1960s and 1970s, a time marked by overlapping waves of political movements, social unrest, and student protests, when tradition was actively questioned and reimagined. Through the voices of Eiko Otake and Tatsu Aoki, both of whom came of age and were deeply engaged in that moment, we will hear firsthand reflections on this dynamic and turbulent period. Having moved to the United States in the 1970s, both artists went on to play significant roles in shaping experimental and cross-cultural art scenes since. Together, they will reflect on their formative experiences and consider a central question: what is the role of the artist in times of profound social and cultural change, back then and now?

• Read Eiko Otake's manifesto here.

•Join a screening event of Tatsu Aoki’s work on May 8 (Fri.), 7–8 PM at the University of Chicago here

May 2026 marks 50 years since Eiko Otake began living and working in the United States. Eiko & Koma first performed at the Japan Society (NYC) on May 6, 1976. Fifty years later, hosted by the Heritage Museum of Asian Art, Eiko returns to Chicago with multiple presentations. This event series is presented in collaboration with Asian Improv aRts Midwest, Japanese Culture Center, and Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and is supported by the Arts Midwest GIG Fund and DePaul Humanities Center.

For more information and tickets visit: https://www.heritageasianart.org/event-details-registration/50-years-of-being-a-foreigner-a-conversation-between-eiko-otake-and-tatsu-aoki