January 7, 2015
Naoshima and Teshima
I recently had the opportunity to travel to Japan and visit the Seto islands. The islands in Japan’s south house some amazing galleries and museums, including some of the best art experiences I have ever had. I often find that not having any preconceptions or expectations allow an experience to really have maximum effect. It’s similar to watching a movie, if someone tells you beforehand how great it is, you already have the bar set high.
Above: The Teshima ‘Art Museum’ external designed by Ryue Nishizawa. Photo: © iwan baan. Teshima Art Museum Cafe. Photo: © Harley Johnston.
I was lucky that I knew very little about Teshima Art Museum in this regard. Even the name is deceiving. The early flight, bus, ferry and shuttle bus ride set me on a course to not be expecting much and be grateful for any time not spent on transport. I don’t want to say too much about Teshima, except that if you get the chance to go to Japan, try to visit this marvellous place.
Above: View from the Chichu Art Museum. Photo: © Hiroshi Sugimoto
The main ‘Art Island’ in Seto is Naoshima with the Bernaise House making it possible to stay amongst the amazing artworks. Sprinkled around the grounds of the hotel are outdoor artworks, with the iconic yellow pumpkin sculpture placed at the end of a small wharf.
We visited the breath-taking Tadao Ando designed Museum that features special areas dedicated to amazing artists Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. The brutal building is in itself an artwork that people stroll through, each hallway and walk-way cutting harsh shapes against the ground and sky.
Above: Benesse House on Naoshima, The famous yellow pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama on Naoshima. Photos © Harley Johnston.
Above: Monet room in the amazing Chichu Art Museum.
The Seto Islands were originally fishing islands, and there are still plenty of signs of the old way of life. On Teshima the rice patties, circling eagles and deafening quite offer an amazing peace compared to Japan’s capital cities. Walking between the various artwork sites and through the old villages really has a transformative affect on you.
Above and cover: Benesse House. Photo: © Wikimedia Commons
