## Immerse Yourself in Art and History at ‘Ashita no Hata’ in Taiza, Kyoto: A Unique Artistic Retreat
Nestled amidst the breathtaking coastal scenery of Taiza, Kyoto, lies a unique artistic haven known as ‘Ashita no Hata,’ meaning ‘Field of Tomorrow.’ This captivating project invites visitors to explore the intersection of contemporary art, historical context, and the serene beauty of the region. ‘Ashita no Hata’ isn’t just an exhibition; it’s an immersive experience that weaves together art, architecture, and the rich cultural heritage of Taiza.
Unveiling the History of Taiza: A Tale of Ancient Origins and Artistic Inspiration
The name ‘Taiza’ itself holds a fascinating historical significance. Legend has it that the name derives from ‘Taiza’ (退座), referring to the retreat of Empress Hashihito, the mother of Prince Shotoku, from the conflict between the Soga and Mononobe clans. This ancient past permeates the landscape and inspires the artists who create works that resonate with the profound history of the region.
A Journey Through Four Enchanting Venues
‘Ashita no Hata’ invites you to embark on a journey through four unique venues, each offering a distinct artistic experience:
1. The Heart of ‘Ashita no Hata’: The Taiza Studio
Begin your exploration at the Taiza Studio, conveniently located near the high-speed bus stop connecting Kyoto Station to Taiza. This renovated 100-year-old traditional house, lovingly restored by skilled artisans, serves as the project’s central hub. Here, you’ll find a wealth of information about the project, including an informative art map that guides you through the various venues and the captivating history of Taiza. The studio itself is a testament to innovative design, featuring traditional techniques like ‘yaki sugi ita’ (burned cedar planks) on its exterior walls. In the autumn exhibition, immerse yourself in a unique ‘Paper Room’ crafted by the Kami-Zoe workshop, showcasing a stunning two-layered wallpaper made from local paper dyed with Taiza’s red earth. This innovative space blends seamlessly with another captivating installation, created by the Kaiakadou workshop, showcasing rainwater collectors and other captivating elements. Explore the studio’s kitchen and the tokonoma (alcove) where you’ll find a curated collection of fermented delicacies by fermentation chef Shuji Kusunoki, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of the region. Ascend to the second floor, where you’ll find ‘The Wood Room,’ a permanent installation featuring a majestic barrel-shaped structure crafted by renowned woodworker Shuji Nakagawa. This room provides a glimpse into the project’s connection to everyday life, serving as staff accommodation at night, highlighting the seamless integration of art and living within ‘Ashita no Hata.’
2. The ‘Taiza Residence’: A Sanctuary of Red Earth and Artistic Expression
Continue your journey to the Taiza Residence, a collaborative creation between AAWAA (COSMIC WONDER) and the NPO TOMORROW, the driving force behind ‘Ashita no Hata.’ This artistic living space revolves around the concept of food and features captivating installations that draw inspiration from the unique red earth of Taiza. The residence is a symphony of textures and colors, with walls crafted from locally sourced red earth, echoing the ancient meaning of ‘ni,’ the archaic pronunciation of ‘tan’ (丹), which signified the red mineral cinnabar (辰砂), synonymous with mercury. At the heart of the residence lies a captivating textile by AAWAA, meticulously crafted from silk buried in the red earth of Taiza for a year, then dyed with red earth and cinnabar, and woven with threads spun by hand. This intricate creation is accompanied by other mesmerizing pieces by AAWAA, including photographs capturing the imprints of ancient wooden coffins from local burial mounds dyed in cinnabar and earthenware vessels from Taiza adorned with intricate silver joinery. The residence itself is a testament to the power of local materials and artistry, creating a space that celebrates the connection between art, nature, and the profound history of Taiza.
3. ‘SEI TAIZA’: A Reimagined Factory of Creativity
Next, discover ‘SEI TAIZA,’ a captivating art gallery housed within a renovated 60-year-old former silk factory in Taiza. This striking building is characterized by its distinctive cement tiles, a nod to the region’s industrial past. The gallery’s entrance welcomes you with a captivating drawing by Seoul-based artist Noh Sang-ho, which serves as the main visual for the ‘Art Map’ for ‘Ashita no Hata.’ This captivating work embodies Noh’s artistic vision, incorporating landmarks of Taiza, local archeological sites, and imaginative landscapes into a mesmerizing collage. Photographer Rika Noguchi also showcases her captivating works, capturing the essence of Taiza through her lens. Ken Kun-min, a Korean artist, delves into the fascinating ‘Urashima Taro’ legend, originating from the nearby town of Amo, and translates his artistic interpretation through his mesmerizing creations, featuring ‘sanbe,’ a traditional Korean textile historically used for mourning attire and burial shrouds. Kun-min skillfully intertwines this fabric with Taiza silk and a diverse range of beads from around the world, creating a tapestry of colors and textures that speak to the artistic exchange between cultures. The curation of ‘SEI TAIZA’ embodies the philosophy behind ‘Ashita no Hata,’ ensuring that each piece is a site-specific creation, uniquely tailored to the history and culture of Taiza, a testament to the project’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and evolving artistic dialogue.
4. ‘Miya no Ashita no Hata’: An Outdoor Sanctuary for Stars and Ancient Spirits
Venture to ‘Miya no Ashita no Hata,’ located near the Takeno Shrine, where the ‘Field of Stars’ outdoor installation awaits. This captivating piece is a testament to collaboration, born from the creative synergy of American artist Terezinha Fernandes, woodworker Shuji Nakagawa, project manager Junya Hashizume, intern Kohei Wakamatsu, and Terezinha’s daughter, Cypress Fernandes-Downs. Inspired by the primitive nature of the ‘utaki’ (sacred groves) in Okinawa, where structures were absent, and the focus was on prayer and connection with the natural world, the ‘Field of Stars’ stands as a permanent outdoor installation inviting visitors to connect with the ancient spirits of the land. Nakagawa’s meticulously crafted barrel-shaped structure, crafted from burnt cypress wood, forms the foundation of this installation. Terezinha’s vision led to the creation of openings in the structure, allowing sunlight to filter through during the day, creating a starry effect. As darkness descends, the open roof invites stargazers to connect with the cosmos, echoing the ancient connection between humanity and the celestial realm. This captivating piece embodies the spirit of collaboration that defines ‘Ashita no Hata,’ with Hashizume and his team dedicating countless hours to digging, transporting stones, and meticulously building the foundation. This hands-on approach reflects the project’s commitment to fostering a sense of connection between artists and the land, ensuring that the artistic vision is deeply rooted in the fabric of Taiza. The ‘Miya no Ashita no Hata’ also features a permanent exhibition of ‘Ashita no Hata Kiln,’ designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, showcasing the artistic creations of ceramicists Akira Shinzato and Takaya Kato.
’SEI KYOTO’: An Extension of Artistic Exploration in the Heart of Kyoto
For those eager to continue their artistic journey in the heart of Kyoto, ‘Ashita no Hata’ presents the ‘SEI KYOTO’ exhibition, held within a renovated space designed by architect Tadao Ando. This temporary exhibition, titled ‘Remedy,’ is a captivating exploration of the ancient traditions of Taiza and the profound connection to the land. At the heart of the exhibition lies a magnificent boat crafted entirely from cypress wood by Shuji Nakagawa, inspired by the local legend of ancient inhabitants placing the deceased in boats and sending them adrift into caves as a form of burial. This powerful piece is complemented by the evocative photographs of Rika Noguchi, capturing the essence of Taiza. ‘SEI KYOTO’ further strengthens the artistic thread that connects Taiza to the broader cultural landscape of Kyoto, inviting visitors to experience the artistic vision of ‘Ashita no Hata’ beyond the boundaries of the coastal town.
The Visionary Force Behind ‘Ashita no Hata’: A Dedication to Art and Connection
‘Ashita no Hata’ is the brainchild of Kayo Tokuda, founder and president of the NPO TOMORROW. Tokuda’s artistic journey has been marked by her involvement in the creation and curation of the iconic Benesse Art Site Naoshima, including the renowned Chichu Art Museum and the mesmerizing Teshima Art Museum. Her dedication to art led her to a profound realization: to fully embrace the beauty surrounding her, she needed to immerse herself in it. This realization propelled her to relocate to Kyoto, where she sought to create a space where younger generations could be inspired by her wealth of knowledge and experience. During her travels, she stumbled upon the captivating Oonaru Tumulus Cluster in Taiza and knew instantly that she had found the perfect location for her vision.
Taiza: A Canvas for Artistic Dialogue and Cultural Exploration
Tokuda’s vision for ‘Ashita no Hata’ is rooted in the profound belief that Taiza holds the key ingredients for an enriching artistic experience: the proximity to the sea and sky, the vibrant community, and the ancient history that resonates through the very fabric of the town. Taiza’s history stretches back to ancient times, offering a canvas for artistic exploration and the tracing of cultural connections that span centuries. Tokuda’s own journey of discovery began with a Korean artist who shared stories of ancient Korean history, sparking a realization of the interconnectedness between cultures. This led her to explore the fascinating similarities between the tumulus in Korea and Japan, highlighting the fascinating exchange of cultural ideas that have shaped the region’s rich history. Tokuda’s profound understanding of Taiza’s unique landscape allows her to see both the historical and cultural connections that emerge when viewing the town from the sea and the land, emphasizing the complex layers of history that define this captivating location. Tokuda firmly believes that art has the power to bridge divides, to challenge preconceived notions, and to foster understanding between individuals and cultures. She draws inspiration from the increasing prevalence of challenging news stories and the growing sense of helplessness that pervades society. Her response to this challenge is to create breathtaking beauty, collaborating with artists from diverse backgrounds, in an effort to dispel negativity and inspire a sense of hope and wonder.
’Ashita no Hata’: An Invitation to Connect and Discover
‘Ashita no Hata’ is more than a collection of art exhibitions; it’s a platform for dialogue and connection. At each venue, staff members are always present (except for the outdoor installations), eager to engage with visitors and share insights into the artistic process, the history of Taiza, and the philosophical underpinnings of the project. Venture beyond the captivating artworks and explore the surrounding landscape, including the ancient tumulus clusters and shrines. As you immerse yourself in Taiza’s captivating atmosphere, the endless expanse of sea and sky will captivate your senses, transporting you to a place where time seems to stand still. This serene ambiance creates the perfect setting for contemplation and appreciation of the unique artistry on display. ‘Ashita no Hata’ offers a truly transformative retreat experience, allowing visitors to connect with history, art, and the natural world in a way that is both profound and unforgettable. Mark your calendars for the spring exhibition, scheduled from March 1st to 16th, 2025, and prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty and artistic vision of Taiza.
’Ashita no Hata’ 2024 Autumn Exhibition
*
Venues
: Taiza Studio, SEI TAIZA, Taiza Residence, Miya no Ashita no Hata*
Exhibition Dates
: Until November 17th, 2024 (Sunday)*
Hours
: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM*
Closed
: Tuesdays and Wednesdays*
Admission
: 1,500 yen (all venues)*
