BUG is an art center* run by Recruit Holdings Co., Ltd., and opened its doors on September 20, 2023.
Drawing on our experience of operating “Recruit’s Two Galleries” in Ginza for over 30 years as part of our CSR activities, we are committed to providing an open space where a diverse range of visitors, including students and those who have gone out into society, people from abroad, and of course, artists and art workers**, can encounter new perspectives, people, and concepts.
Furthermore, we place high value on cultivating a relationship of trust with the artists and art workers that we collaborate with in each exhibition and event—fostering new opportunities and creating an environment where individuals can challenge themselves to the best of their ability. We are committed to improving working conditions and practices within the art industry, with the aim of fostering a sense of security for individuals to pursue their activities over the long term. As we embark on this new endeavor at BUG, we will act in accordance with the following directives.
*This conveys our dedication to not only host exhibition projects, but also support artists— creating a space where various people come together through art and mutually influence each other.
**Museum and gallery staff members, and freelancers in the field of art.
Our three activity directives
BUG is committed to creating a positive working environment for artists and art workers, providing opportunities for career advancement, in order to support the sustainability of their practice.
1. Supporting Various Life Stages
Our aim is to understand the environment in which artists and art workers are placed, and respond to their needs.
– When organizing events, we will make every effort to arrange schedules that allow for a balance between childcare and caregiving responsibilities.
– When inviting artists who are raising children to take part in talk events or exhibitions, we will assess their childcare needs and provide appropriate support (i.e., covering expenses for babysitters during setups that have to take place on Sundays or evening talk events).
– For the BUG Art Award, eligibility is based on years of experience, rather than age. Artists with less than 10 years of creative experience are eligible to apply, and each applicant is free to define “creative experience” as they see fit. Applicants also have the option to exclude any gaps in their creative activities due to childbirth, medical treatment, caregiving, or the like.
– In order to promote participation, artists and art workers residing outside of the Greater Tokyo area and its three neighboring prefectures are reimbursed for their travel costs (when using public transportation).
2. Ensuring Appropriate Partnerships
Given the high number of freelance workers in the industry, we are committed to respecting their rights and creating an environment where they can work comfortably and sustainably.
– Setting appropriate compensation for artists and curators.- Providing explanations of contracts and confirming terms prior to entering an agreement.
– Ensuring that contracts are finalized before carrying out work, and including clear provisions in the contract which detail each party’s rights, including copyright, as well as remuneration and production expenses.
– Securing insurance coverage to address potential injuries or other issues concerning artists and art workers during the operation of exhibitions.
– Implementing communication guidelines for CRAWL, our program for art workers (organizers), to ensure that participants feel comfortable throughout.
– Reflecting the voices of BUG Art Award finalists and judges in the final program.
3. Providing Career Support
We create a space where artists and art workers can truly push themselves, and help them connect with future opportunities.
■ 【For Artists】 Host the BUG Art Award
Throughout the application and final screening process, we will provide opportunities for participants to gain various skills and experiences. We also give artists the chance to work with installers, other finalists, and the BUG staff, with the intention of supporting artists in building their careers.
– We will offer several lectures, covering subjects including portfolio creation and writing artist statements.
– The 20 semi-finalists (which may include artist units) who have passed the first screening receive feedback from each of the judges. We also offer lectures and consultation meetings about setting up and holding exhibitions.
– Those asked to judge the award are individuals who are capable of offering support and advice to artists from a familiar standpoint, joining us in paving the way for a new generation. Judges also stand in alignment with BUG’s mission and are enthusiastic about shaping this new award together.
■【For Artists and Art Workers】 Organize Exhibitions
We proceed with scheduling in a way that minimizes pressure on artists and curators, reaching out well in advance of the exhibition period to allow ample time for contemplation.
In terms of the production budget, we provide artist and curation fees, as well as production costs for new works, in addition to covering exhibition set-up costs. Furthermore, we collaborate with artists to help them make their career visions a reality.
– We introduce a range of artists with different experiences and careers through the exhibition format. Moreover, we present artists’ concepts and unique dedication to their work through discussion events and other endeavors aimed to share their work more widely.
– Through the sharing of exhibition information in Japanese and English, as well as the production of interview videos, we hope to accumulate a substantial archive.
– We cover the production costs needed to create new works.
– By helping artists gain experience in selling artworks (from pricing and packaging methods to sales documentation), we aim to expand their career options.
■【For Art Workers】 Support the careers of art workers*
We share the work of art professionals widely, providing opportunities for skill development and network building.
– We run the CRAWL program to connect organizers across various fields and nurture their professional growth.
– We host workshops and events that advance art workers’ careers.
*Museum and gallery staff members, and freelancers in the field of art.
To our visitors and employees of the Recruit Group
We would like to create a better future for BUG, as well as the cultural and creative sector, alongside those who believe in our work. We appreciate your ongoing interest in BUG’s efforts, and we would be grateful for your continued guidance and support.
