Renowned Japanese theatre director, writer and philosopher Mr. Tadashi Suzuki offered a glimpse into his creativity and unique views about art in a dialogue with TNUA President Prof. Ju, Tzong-Ching concerning globalization during his visit to the school on Nov. 10.
Extending welcome to one of the most influential figures in Japanese theatre, Prof. Ju noted that Mr. Suzuki not only is an outstanding director, but also has been deeply involved in the making of Japanese cultural policies and arts environment. The director has for several times put forth insightful ideas for reforming Japan’s theatre systems and environment.
He has been art director for a number of institutions and events, including the Shizuoka Performing Arts Center and the Toga Festival, said Prof. Ju in a forum titled, “The mission of artists in the face of globalization.”
Prof. Ju pointed out that he world economy has entered the age of globalization and large amounts of information and knowledge can be spread to every corners of the world in an extremely short time. Globalization is threatening the existence of traditional cultures in their respective areas. He raised a number of questions and issues concerning globalization, asking how artists should face the trend, what position they will occupy in society, and what changes to their creativity will see.
Mr. Suzuki, citing former French Minister of Cultural Affairs Andre Malraux, said the existence of art is to link the past to the future, and the self to the other. Therefore, the history of art is a history emphasizing the commonality of human beings. What artists have always been doing is an attempt to achieve this goal. In other words, a great artist uses art to touch the heart of different cultural groups, breaking down all national, racial and class barriers, the Japanese director said.
He remarked that human beings are bound to experience many mishaps living in this world, but art can give them comfort. Through this common language, people – wherever they are from – can take comfort and find consolation, and the healing power is the same for anyone.
He said actually globalization has broken down national barriers, made communication easier, and shortened the distance, helping artists achieve their dream of a boundary-free world.