The Setouchi Triennale Opens in Japan: Taiwanese Seed Boat and Olive Dream Make Their Grand Landing
▲ The Setouchi Triennale takes place once every three years and is divided into three seasons, with venues spread throughout the Seto Inland Sea. (Photo /Official Triennale Art Festival)
By Cai Shaojian, Setouchi Post
Spanning the Seto Inland Sea of Japan, with exhibits distributed across 12 islands, the "2016 Setouchi Triennale" officially opened on the morning of March 20 at Takamatsu Port. Held once every three years, this is the third edition of the festival, featuring 206 artworks by 226 artists from 34 countries.Among this year’s participants, Taiwanese artists Lin Shun-long and Wang Wen-chih showcased their works *Seed Boat* and *Olive Dream* at Takamatsu Port and Shodoshima Island, respectively.
%Ji Qi Huang Xian Zhan She Zhi and Xian Zhai. (Note: Ji Qi Huang refers to a scenic spot)
The "Setouchi Triennale" (Setouchi Triennale) has this year’s theme as "Sea of Regeneration," continuing the approach of the previous two editions by using the coastal cities and numerous islands of the Seto Inland Sea as exhibition venues.A total of 206 artworks by global artists are displayed across Takamatsu Port, Uno Port, Naoshima, Teshima, Megijima, Ogijima, Shodoshima, Oshima, Inujima, Samijima, Honjima, Takamijima, Kuroshima, and Ibuki Island.
%Ji Di De Dan Xiang Cun Zhan She Zhi Lan Yong You Jiang Kuai, visitors can enjoy a peaceful stay while experiencing the local scenery. (Note: Ji Di refers to a location)
The Seto Inland Sea has since ancient times been a vital transportation route connecting Shikoku, Kyushu, and Honshu. Each of its many islands boasts profound traditional culture and rich natural scenery, having flourished immensely during the industrial era decades ago. However, in recent years, the region has faced challenges such as an aging population and depopulation, leaving many buildings on the islands abandoned. To revitalize the area,the Japanese government has harnessed the power of art, inviting artists from around the world to draw inspiration from the historical, cultural, and natural elements of the Seto Inland Sea to create corresponding artworks, thereby introducing the world to the charm of the “Sea of Hope.”
%Jian Jian Zai Cheng Nei You Bu Tong De Jing Dian, each offering a unique experience. (Note: Jian Jian refers to various attractions)
At the opening ceremony, Kagawa Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura, president of the Setouchi Triennale Executive Committee, stated that this year’s theme, “Sea of Regeneration,” uses art as a guide to lead visitors on a journey around the Inland Sea islands. Along the way, they can enjoy the healing scenery of the sea and experience the unique cultures and local lifestyles on each island. “In addition to maintaining the excellent traditions of the first two editions,the third edition also introduces several new themes, such as ‘giving new value to old items,’ ‘connecting Asia through the ocean and further engaging with the world,’ ‘savoring the authentic flavors of the Seto Inland Sea,’ and ‘promoting local unique cultures such as lion dances, female Bunraku performances, and bonsai.’”
%The painting titled "Boundless Vitality" (depicting vitality from nature) showcases the artist's deep connection with the natural world. (Image, landscape painting)
Taiwanese artist Lin Shun-long’s work *Seed Boat* made its debut at the "2nd Setouchi Triennale" in 2013 on Teshima Island. At that time, it also collaborated with Taiwan’s “Godot Theater Company” to present cross-disciplinary art performances across various islands. Lin Shun-long said the Seed Boat was inspired by the sea-drifting plant “Barringtonia asiatica” (Pride of India), aiming to remind humanity of past migrations across borders through the reproductive method of seeds drifting over the ocean.
%The artwork (showcasing cultural expression and emotional depth) reflects the charm of the season, (school, art gallery) where visitors can immerse themselves in the artistic atmosphere. (Image, art exhibition)
Born in Chiayi, Taiwan, Wang Wen-chih, who loves nature, often creates works closely connected to the environment. He has participated in the triennale since its first edition in 2010 and has been invited for all three editions so far. Over six years and three editions, all three of his works have been exhibited on Shodoshima, the most populated island in the Seto Inland Sea. His latest work, *Olive Dream*, constructed with approximately 4,000 locally sourced bamboo poles, is shaped like Shodoshima’s renowned olive fruit. Located beside terraced fields in a valley, the interior of the structure is accessible to visitors and even serves as a gathering space and small theater for local residents. Wang Wen-chih said,the relationship between the artwork and its surrounding environment is what matters most to him..
%The artist's piece "Joyful Dance" captures the serene beauty of lotus ponds in southern China, radiating a tranquil and natural charm. (Image, southern Chinese scenery)
The "2016 Setouchi Triennale" is held across three seasons—spring, summer, and autumn—specifically from March 20 to April 17, July 18 to September 4, and October 8 to November 6, spanning a total of 108 days.To accommodate the event schedule, local ferry companies have added extra services, allowing visitors to enjoy the art while also experiencing the grandeur of the Seto Inland Sea.
Visitors to the "2016 Setouchi Triennale" can purchase a “Work Appreciation Passport” for 5,000 yen (approximately 1,500 NTD) at Takamatsu Port, Takamatsu Station, or Takamatsu Airport.For those wishing to take ferries, a “3-Day Unlimited Ferry Ride Ticket” is also available, offering access to eight routes. For more details, please visit the"2016 Setouchi Triennale"official website.
% Instant Print Companion: This section showcases the fusion of tradition and locality, where you can choose a more natural and authentic way to experience the culture. (Image, Qingpu Rural Charm)
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