Kobe Biennale 2009

Thanks to its geographical and topographical features, Kobe has flourished since days of old as a strategically important gateway between land and sea. Standing at the forefront of cross-cultural exchange, the city has experienced the influx of a wide variety of artistic traditions, giving rise to a diverse and multi-layered mix of cultures that have coexisted in harmony until the present day. In addition, the citizens of Kobe will never forget how the emotional power of the arts helped to heal the wounds of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake of 1995, and played a vital role in giving people the courage and strength to rebuild their city.