Warehouse Terada

Kohei Terada's Vision for Transforming Japan’s Art World

Kohei Terada

Since 2019, Kohei Terada, CEO of Terada Warehouse, has been accelerating the company’s art ventures, aiming to reshape Japan’s art industry. With a background in IT and strong ties to the business world, Terada brings a unique perspective to Japan's evolving art landscape.

Expanding Japan’s Art Market

Petals Tokyo: water hotel with four ships floating on the canal of Tennozu

Japan's art market, currently valued at ¥90 billion, shows immense growth potential compared to the U.S.'s $40 billion market. Terada envisions growing Japan's market to ¥200 billion within a decade by addressing key structural bottlenecks such as legal restrictions, tax regulations, and limited investment in artistic talent. To achieve this, he advocates for collaboration between government bodies and industry stakeholders to create a supportive environment for artists, galleries, and collectors alike.

A New Purpose for Terada Warehouse

Terada’s company has historically focused on art storage, but he is broadening its mission. His goal is to connect people’s daily lives with art, making it more accessible and integral to living spaces. Terada plans to transform Tokyo’s Tennoz district into a world-renowned art hub through initiatives such as the WHAT Museum, which showcases collections to elevate the value of stored artwork. Additionally, he seeks to employ digital platforms to connect artists with potential buyers, creating an ecosystem that supports the growth of artists’ careers and the galleries that represent them.

Terrada Art Complex Photo by Aya Kawachi

Developing Art Communities in Tennoz and Beyond

Terada emphasizes creating an inclusive space that not only attracts art enthusiasts but also draws in those unfamiliar with the art world. From young collectors discovering their first pieces at WHAT Café to seasoned art lovers visiting exhibitions at the TERRADA ART COMPLEX, the goal is to foster deeper connections between people and art. Terada also envisions expanding these efforts to regions beyond Tokyo, with upcoming projects planned in Kyoto, aiming to support the city’s rich artistic community by providing better environments for artists to thrive.

Future Growth and Global Engagement

Looking beyond Japan, Terada believes Tokyo has the potential to become a leading art hub in Asia, rivaling cities like Hong Kong and Seoul. However, to realize this vision, significant changes in Japan’s art infrastructure are needed, including fostering a stronger collector base and increasing international engagement. By addressing these challenges, Terada hopes to propel Japan’s art market to new heights, ultimately positioning Tokyo as a center for contemporary art on the global stage.