What distinguishes Ukiha’s community from other rural areas is the remarkably progressive and creative attitude of the resident creators and food producers. Whatever their field is - be it production of milk, tea, ham, fruits, woodwork, pottery or furniture - the producers are refined in both the taste and skill. There is clearly what you might call Ukiha’s style in the looks of the town and shops, as well as in the quality of products, which comes from the common attitude of the creators as both disciplined artisans and daring, experimental artists.
Though Ukiha is still a village rather than a city, there are enough cultural stimulation in the life here. Local business owners often organize artistic events and exhibitions - a contemporary piano concert in an old factory, a pop-up cafes and performances scattered in a whole block, short film shows, etc.. all taking place in beautiful historic structures.
What you could do here as an artist incorporating the sites and venues, as well as collaborating with people of Ukiha, exchanging mutual inspiration, comes in a great variety.
Explore this site to see if there is something or someone that clicks with your interest and the field of work.
If you are willing to have an artist’s talk event or lectures and workshops during your stay,
or work with some groups, we will help you coordinate such an event in and near Ukiha.
http://www.design.kyushu-u.ac.jp/kyushu-u/english/index
- A historic castle town in Oita prefecture, vibrant with young artists’ community
http://www.taketaartculture.com/
And other schools and community groups…