Written by TRAVELER Luxe / Reporter Lu Wanlin
The Setouchi International Art Festival attracted significant attention right from its first edition in 2010. In 2013, the festival schedule was expanded into three seasons—spring, summer, and autumn. Beyond the initial seven islands chosen from the more than 3,000 islands in the Seto Inland Sea for the first edition—Naoshima, Inujima, Megijima, Ogijima, Shōdoshima, Ōshima, and Teshima—this year also includes Shamijima, Honjima, Takamijima, Awashima, and Ibuki Island, making a total of 12 islands. Together, they explore the theme of “Marine Empowerment,” addressing culture, communities, nature, and history, and highlighting the unique concept of artistic symbiosis found on the islands.
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A work titled “Waist-Hanging” by Niki de Saint Phalle, one of the outdoor installations at Benesse House (Photo courtesy / TRAVELER Luxe Traveler)
Designed by architect Tadao Ando, Benesse House emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between nature, architecture, and art. Its design incorporates views of the outdoor coastline. In addition to the art museum and accommodation facilities, it also offers well-appointed restaurants and cafes. Public art pieces located throughout the guest rooms and outdoor spaces allow visitors to immerse themselves in an artistic atmosphere while enjoying the natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea. Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow pumpkin is also part of the collection at the Benesse House Museum and is displayed outdoors. Under the clear sky, the blue sea and sky complement the artist’s pumpkin installation. The pumpkin has become a symbol of Naoshima, even turned into adorable merchandise and a popular souvenir.
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The symbol of Naoshima: Yayoi Kusama’s giant pumpkin (Photo courtesy / TRAVELER Luxe Traveler)
Although Naoshima is administratively part of Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island, it is actually located about 3 kilometers off the southern coast of Okayama Prefecture. A ferry ride from Uno Port takes just 20 minutes. Before its transformation into an art island, Naoshima suffered from heavy industrial pollution for a period. It wasn’t until 1987, when the then-mayor and Tadashi Fukutake, heir to the Fukutake Publishing Company, invited Tadao Ando to create a cultural arts village that a space promoting the coexistence of people and culture was established. This effort led to the island attracting over 340,000 visitors annually, propelling it onto the international stage. Its permanent art museums and installations have left a deep impression on the world, becoming symbols of art in the Seto Inland Sea.
[INFO]
◎ Setouchi International Art Festival
Locations: Naoshima, Inujima, Megijima, Ogijima, Shōdoshima, Ōshima, Teshima, Shamijima, Honjima, Takamijima, Awashima, Ibuki Island, and areas around Takamatsu Port and Uno Port
Dates: Autumn edition 2013 runs from October 5 to November 4.
Admission: Art Passport: Spring ¥4,500 (pre-sale ¥3,500), three-season passport ¥5,000. Available through major travel agencies.
※ The Art Passport allows one entry to each art facility during the exhibition period, but entry to the Chichu Art Museum and Inujima Art House Museum requires an additional ¥1,000 fee.
Website: setouchi-artfest.jp
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