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Exchange Residency Program
(Japan-based creators sent abroad)
update: 2019.10.7
USUI Hitomi
| Participating Project | Exchange Residency Program (Japanese Creators sent abroad) |
|---|---|
| Activity Based | Japan |
| City / Place stayed | Helsinki / HIAP ［Helsinki International Artist Programme］ |
| Period | 2017.10 - 2017.12 |
Purpose of the residency
The purpose of this residency will be to expand on the idea of the Wood Age, as I investigate the origin of human object-making in the forest and work with the materials I find. I intend to make work based on the relationship between humans and forests. Worship of the forest, the presence of indigenous peoples in northern regions, use of tree bark and the technique of bending wood are some of the cultural similarities between Finland and Japan. During my stay, I will focus on the Everyman's Right, a right that does not exist in Japan, as well as its cultural and spiritual aspects such as the worship of nature and the use of trees.
Plan during the residency
- I will take daily trips into the forest carrying nothing, existing as a single body in the forest. My activities will take place in forests easily accessible from towns and on my trips to and from nearby islands.
- I will leave my woodworking tools behind in Japan and take just a small knife that I made. I will only use water, fire and the knife to experiment with materials found in the forest.
- When I choose to make something with the material, I will attempt to use it, and pursue a practice that expands the imagination of (but not recreates) the Wood Age.
- Gathering information through interactions with those involved in environmental issues and renewable energy, as well as artists working with these themes.
- I will also conduct research on myths related to the forest and engage in dialogue with fellow artists and local residents to investigate the relationship between humans and forests.
