Kojima in Kurashiki City is a region with historical buildings such as Nozaki's Historical Residence, which became wealthy through the salt-making industry during the Edo period, and Shimotsui Shipping Agent Museum, which has been restored from the Meiji period.
It is also famous as the holy land of jeans, attracting many tourists from across the country.
However, local residents rarely have the opportunity to visit.
This time, I heard that works by award-winning contemporary artists would be exhibited, and I became interested in how they would blend with the historical architecture, so I decided to visit on the opening day.
What is the "Kojima Blue Art Festival 2022"?
The "Kojima Blue Art Festival 2022" is an event planned by the Kojima Chamber of Commerce and Industry to promote the charm of Kojima through art and spread it nationwide.
It will be held from September 29, 2022 (Thursday) to November 6, 2022 (Sunday).
Approximately 70 works by award-winning contemporary artists are displayed at six locations, including tourist facilities in Kojima, Kurashiki City.
- Kojima Community Center / Lee Yoon-kyung
- Kojima Tourist Port / Nakagiri Satomi
- Shimotsui Shipping Agent Museum / Kim Hyo-yeon
- Washuzan Visitor Center / Takamatsu Asuka
- Nozaki's Historical Residence / Kojima Tomoki, Lee Yoon-kyung, Kim Hyo-yeon
- Washuzan Rest House / Kojima Tomoki
Opening Ceremony Scene
On the opening day, the sky was clear and the autumn breeze was pleasant.
The opening ceremony was held at 10:00 AM near the courtyard of the Kojima Community Center, with greetings from the Kurashiki City Mayor's representative and guests, as well as a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The three artists also greeted the audience one by one.
They seemed nervous but explained the concepts of their works clearly.
After the ceremony, I was able to talk to the three artists, so I will introduce their works along with the discussions.
Work by Lee Yoon-kyung
Lee graduated from Kurashiki University of Science and the Arts. In 2018, he won the grand prize at the 11th I Prize.
This time, he exhibited works at the Kojima Community Center and Nozaki's Historical Residence.
Each of his works is said to contain a story.
The boat displayed at the Kojima Community Center symbolizes the concept of overcoming difficulties and embarking on a journey towards a new beginning.
Inside the same venue, a large work using wire and plant dye, inspired by the Seto-Ohashi Bridge and imagining waves and small boats, is displayed, creating a magnificent view.
Work by Kojima Tomoki
Kojima is an artist who won the 4th I Prize in 2010.
He lives in the local Shimotsui and also works as a company employee.
He is a father of three children and reportedly dedicates time to his art from 9 PM to midnight every day.
This is his work "cosmos," displayed at Nozaki's Historical Residence.
It blends in as if it has existed in that place since ancient times, creating an indescribable atmosphere.
Kojima expresses the universe through familiar things.
Kojima's works are also displayed at the Washuzan Visitor Center.
Work by Kim Hyo-yeon
Kim is currently a part-time lecturer at Kurashiki University of Science and the Arts.
In 2017, she received the Encouragement Award at the 10th I Prize.
She is also exhibiting "Breath Clock" at the Setouchi International Art Festival during the same period as this event in Takamatsu Marugame Shopping Street.
I thought I would like to visit if I have the opportunity.
At the Kojima event, Kim's works are displayed at Nozaki's Historical Residence and Shimotsui Shipping Agent Museum.
I also visited Shimotsui Shipping Agent Museum.
Kim's works draw light into the space, creating a fantastical feeling.
Depending on the viewer, the perception may change, but to me, it looked like a rabbit in the moon.
Imagining various things is also fun.
Conclusion
A few years ago, I visited Nozaki's Historical Residence and Shimotsui Shipping Agent Museum, but I didn't remember much about it.
This time, even places I wouldn't normally visit became an opportunity to go out and explore because of the works displayed by these promising artists.
At the Washuzan observation deck, you can enjoy the view of the sea and the Seto-Ohashi Bridge stretching out before you.
I felt as if I gained something extra, making it a memorable day.
In the Kojima area, there is also a simultaneous event called "Kojima Sanpo - See and Eat Kojima's Fish", which introduces restaurants serving fish dishes.
By posting with the Kojima Blue # hashtag campaign on Instagram or Twitter, you can win Kojima specialty products in a lottery.
How about enjoying delicious food in Kojima while exploring the artworks?
Data on the Kojima Blue Art Festival 2022
| Name | Kojima Blue Art Festival 2022 |
|---|---|
| Dates | September 29, 2022 (Thursday) to November 6, 2022 (Sunday) |
| Location | Kojima, Kurashiki City |
| Participation Fee (Tax Included) | Free |
| Website | Kojima Blue Art Festival |
