Enjoy art installations across 12 islands by boat at the Setouchi Triennale

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network, Reported by Chen Guanxin

 

First launched in 2010, the Setouchi Triennale captured global attention by inviting visitors to explore art installations that blend harmoniously with the landscapes and cultural heritage of the Seto Inland Sea’s islands via boat tours. As the world’s first major art event set against an island backdrop, it returns from March 20, 2013, and will unfold over three seasons—spring, summer, and autumn—for a total of 108 days. With Naoshima, Teshima, Shodoshima, and nine other islands in the Seto Inland Sea, along with areas around Takamatsu Port and Uno Port in Kagawa Prefecture serving as stages, the theme “Art and Islands Weaving the Four Seasons of the Seto Inland Sea” showcases a diverse range of artworks infused with local cultural elements. Among them are pieces by Taiwanese modern artist Wang Wen-Zhi, who has been invited to exhibit at numerous international and domestic art events.

The “Setouchi Triennale 2013” will take place in three sessions: Spring (March 20–April 21), Summer (July 20–September 1), and Autumn (October 5–November 4), 2013, across 12 islands in the Seto Inland Sea—Naoshima, Teshima, Megijima, Ogijima, Shodoshima, Oshima, Inujima, Honjima, Shamijima, Takamijima, Awashima, and Ibukijima—as well as the areas around Takamatsu Port and Uno Port.

 

Among the various islands and exhibitions, Teshima focuses on the themes of “food” and “art,” highlighted by the “Teshima Art Museum,” which blends with the landscape, and the “Island Kitchen,” which serves as a community hub. Megijima explores themes of light, wind, and waves, featuring nature-based art experiences, utilizing vacant houses, alleyways, and closed elementary and junior high schools in its artistic projects. In summer, it also hosts events such as a global children's summer camp and an international exchange exhibition by Aichi Prefectural University of Fine Arts to strengthen ties with residents. Ogijima repurposes its closed elementary and junior high schools for artistic creation and offers workshops led by artists. The layout of the artworks on the island allows visitors to experience its distinctive sloped settlements and intricate alleys, connecting them with the island’s rural charm and traditions. Shodoshima, where Wang Wen-Zhi’s works are displayed, promotes art initiatives in vacant spaces and installations across locations including the harbor, the Labyrinth District, Mitsushima Peninsula, and the Soy Sauce Village.

The Seto Inland Sea, a vast body of water located between Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, has long been known for its abundant marine resources and served as a crucial maritime route. The region has a rich history shaped by the convergence and exchange of diverse cultures. Each island in the inland sea boasts unique cultural traditions and stunning scenery. The 2010 Setouchi Triennale was held against this distinctive cultural backdrop, attracting over 930,000 visitors. Official website: setouchi-artfest.jp/en.

 

● Read more: Autumn Leaves Festival Begins – The Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Turns Crimson with Maple Trees

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