Actress Kitagawa Keiko Appointed Ambassador for Louvre Museum Renaissance Exhibition in Tokyo

Japanese actress Kitagawa Keiko, 39, was appointed ambassador for the "Louvre Museum Exhibition: Renaissance" at a press conference held in Tokyo on June 18. The exhibition, running from September 9 to December 13 at the National Art Center Tokyo, features over 50 carefully selected artworks that showcase the essential characteristics of Renaissance art, a movement that flourished in Italy from the late 15th to late 16th centuries before spreading across Europe.

Kitagawa expressed enthusiasm about the role, stating that she had long hoped to work in the art field given her lifelong passion for viewing paintings and visiting museums. She revealed that she actively checks museum websites and exhibition information regularly, describing herself as something of a museum enthusiast. The actress first visited the Louvre Museum in Paris in her mid-twenties and was profoundly moved by its scale, vast collection, and artistic world. Since then, she has made efforts to visit whenever her work takes her to France.

The ambassador also discussed her cultural interests with her husband, singer and entertainer DAIGO, 48, noting that they frequently visit museums together. She humorously described his approach as "casually tagging along," while she actively engages by purchasing exhibition merchandise and art books to extend the experience at home. Kitagawa particularly encouraged potential visitors, noting that Renaissance art enthusiasts would find the exhibition highly satisfying, while those intimidated by classical art would be surprised to see many works they have encountered in images brought together in one place. She also recommended paying special attention to the exhibition's audio guide.