What We Do

An overview of the activities and events of the National Center for Art Research (NCAR).

News

    What We do

    NCAR works to deepen and expand the expertise of the arts in collaboration with a wide range of organizations and sectors throughout society.

    Beyond conducting research in specialized fields, we contribute to the overall advancement of museum activities in Japan. Our efforts are based on the country’s cultural and arts promotion policies and include strengthening the functions of the National Museum of Art, Japan as a national center; collecting and disseminating information domestically and internationally; promoting the use of collections; building professional networks; expanding learning initiatives; and supporting artists.

    As NCAR does not operate public facilities that can be used for research purposes, we share our activities and research outcomes through this website. In addition, with the aim of sharing knowledge and the appeal of art, we offer programs such as symposia, lectures, and workshops. These programs are open not only to specialists, but also to anyone with an interest in art.

    NCAR symposium

    At the NCAR Symposium, art professionals and researchers from Japan and abroad gather to share insights and deepen discussions on museum management and contemporary social issues through presentations and dialogue.

    NCAR Symposium 004

    Replicas and more: Marcel Duchamp The Large Glass——Stockholm, London, Tokyo, and Paris
    (Held on March 1, 2025)

    NCAR Workshop

    The NCAR Workshops provide opportunities to learn specialized knowledge and skills—such as museum conservation techniques and collection management—through hands-on training led by expert instructors. These programs support the professional development of researchers and practitioners while fostering the formation of professional networks.

    NCAR Workshop 005

    “Repair of Torn Canvas using Single Thread Bonding”
    (Held on August 8, 2025)

    NCAR Talk

    NCAR Talk is a talk program that invites speakers from Japan and abroad to share insights and case studies on international art trends and NCAR’s activities. Artists and curators take the stage to present their own practices and discuss the latest developments in the field.

    NCAR Talk 008

    Report on the 5th NCAR Study Tour (UK) — The Current Art Landscape in the UK

    NCAR Lecture

    NCAR Lecture is a program that sets specialized themes and features leading researchers and practitioners who systematically present their expertise. Focusing on topics such as the conservation, restoration, and utilization of artworks, the lectures aim to deepen specialized understanding and promote the dissemination of knowledge.

    NCAR Lecture 002

    Development of Analog Photography and Conservation of Photographic Heritage