Envoy: Japan, Iran cultivate cultural ties via academic collaboration
In a recent address at the international symposium ‘Art and the Space in Between’, Japanese Ambassador to Iran, Tamaki Tsukada, emphasized the importance of cultural and academic collaboration between the two nations.
He stated, “Regardless of political issues, an academic relationship between Iran and Japan has been established, and we welcome student exchanges between the two countries.”
The symposium aims to enhance comparative studies between cultures and facilitate the exchange of ideas in art and architecture along the Silk Road, IRNA reported.
Tsukada expressed his satisfaction with the event, noting that it allows the peoples of both countries to become more familiar with each other’s cultures. He said, “We can utilize the historical connections and shared values between Iran and Japan.”
Tsukada further highlighted the need to strengthen student exchanges, aiming to promote Iranian culture and introduce it to other fields.
He explained that understanding the cultural nuances of Iran has been a “remarkable” experience for many Japanese scholars.
Elham Andaroodi, the symposium’s secretary, noted that one of the primary goals is to identify common themes in the architecture of Iran and Japan.
She remarked, “Japan is positioned at the end of the Silk Road and serves as a gateway to technology, while Iran possesses a rich cultural and historical background.” This synergy enables both countries to gain insights from each other’s experiences, making mutual understanding essential.
Andaroodi also pointed out that Japanese architecture has become a focal point of global innovation, mentioning that nine Japanese architects recently won prestigious awards.
She encouraged participants to learn from Japan’s journey of modernity built upon traditional roots, stating, “We must find a connection to link our historical architecture with the needs of today’s society.”
Discussing the similarities in transitional spaces within Iranian and Japanese architecture, Andaroodi highlighted the rich cultural and artistic heritage of both nations.
She said, “We are very rich in the realm of transition and threshold, with elements like domes, courtyards, corridors, and gardens providing powerful connections between indoor and outdoor spaces.”
The symposium also coincides with an exhibition titled ‘Journey along the Silk Road,’ featuring works from renowned Japanese architects Arata Isozaki, Shigeru Ban, and Ryue Nishizawa.
This exhibition will run from January 7 to February 6 at the Kamal-ol-Molk Museum Gallery and the Negarestan Garden in Tehran, welcoming researchers, students, artists, and enthusiasts alike.