G current, a platform that helps businesses become aware of contemporary art and encourages them to take action such as purchasing or investing in it, is seeing new developments. Representative Shun Ishii invited gallerist Tomio Koyama to a press conference. We'd like to explore G current's role as a platform for transforming how businesses interact with contemporary art, along with Ishii's activities.

G current was founded with Ishii's desire to "create a system that encourages various companies to enter the contemporary art industry and increase their connections with contemporary art, thereby contributing to improving the international reach and competitiveness of Japanese contemporary art." Koyama, a leading figure in the contemporary art industry, commented, "There are no collectors in Japan. Even if they have money, they don't spend it on art. However, there are many talented creators, so a service that connects them is needed." The new service, "Favorite," was created to change this situation. Participating businesses can discover their favorite galleries and artists and purchase works from a dedicated website at any time. Furthermore, efforts are underway to raise production funds through crowdfunding, a tool that allows people to easily get involved in art.

G current's support styles vary from company to company. For example, the sake brewery Dassai provides sake at international art fairs, while other companies collaborate with artists to create products. The forms of support vary as the number of companies increases, and currently, 17 companies and services support Ishii's philosophy.

"The overseas art scene is dominated by 'adults,' and it's not uncommon for people in their 60s and 70s to purchase avant-garde works by young artists. There's a cultural foundation for retired people to collect art as a hobby. These elements are disappearing in Japan today, and it's becoming childish, so I want to change that," says Koyama. On October 20, Koyama will open a new art space in Roppongi. This will become a cultural salon where 'adults' gather.

The environment surrounding contemporary art is changing every day. I would like to continue to keep an eye on G current's efforts to go a step further than just viewing art.