Living Island Exhibition at Japan House London

The captivating Japan House in London has become the backdrop for an extraordinary exhibition that explores a remarkable 13-year journey of art and architecture on Inujima, a mesmerizing island in Japan. Titled 'Living Island,' this thought-provoking showcase, curated by the innovative artistic director Yoko Hasegawa and the renowned architect Kazuyo Sejima, reveals the inspiring initiative of blending accessible art, visionary pavilions, and collaborative projects. This initiative aimed to unite artists and locals in a shared mission to rejuvenate and secure a thriving future for the beloved Seto Inland Sea island.

Inujima has faced challenges, including a declining population, but the 'Living Island' exhibition, running from May 21 to September 4, 2022, takes visitors on a journey through architectural models, stunning photography, compelling films, and heartfelt stories from the island's residents. This immersive experience highlights the significant transformative impact of this groundbreaking project on the local community and environment.

The launch of the 'Art House Project' in 2010 marked a critical milestone, aiming to inspire residents to view their surroundings in a new light while establishing a strong foundation for arts and culture to protect the island's future against the challenges posed by an aging demographic. Situated amid the picturesque Seto Inland Sea and supported by the esteemed Fukutake Foundation, this visionary project plays a crucial role in the broader Benesse Art Site Naoshima, a group of islands undergoing profound changes through the introduction of art and culture.

Inujima Island serves as a sanctuary adorned with a rich tapestry of galleries crafted from recycled materials, dynamic outdoor exhibits that adapt to their environment, a tranquil botanical garden nestled in a transparent greenhouse, and a variety of tourist facilities. Each installation, structure, and artwork conveys the project's core theme of symbiosis, blending harmoniously with the natural landscape. Renowned artists, including Nawa Khei and Kojin Haruka, contribute their distinct perspectives, enriching the exploration of coexistence within the project's framework.

The exhibition delves deep into the intricate connections between art, architecture, and the stunning landscape, vividly demonstrating the powerful influence of a vibrant cultural ecosystem on a local community. A profound message resonates throughout, suggesting the potential to reignite cultural vitality while showcasing humanity's inherent capacity to live in harmony with nature. An interesting fact about Inujima is that it is home to the Inujima Seirensho Art Museum, an art space that was formerly a copper refinery, symbolizing the island's unique blend of history and modern artistic expression.