It is welcome news that art festivals are now being held at numerous locations and because of that, art is within reach of everyone. On the other hand, we have to consider the downside of art festivals turning into mere tourist attractions.
Due to the free flow of information and goods in modern societies, the significance of local communities and their distinctive characteristics are becoming indistinguishable. To compensate for this negative effect, local communities are trying to produce unique souvenirs and host various kinds of festivals. The problem underlying souvenirs and festivals is the lack of depth in meaning, as their sole aim is to make profit. Because local communities are driven by economic gain, similarity in their activities and products can be seen wherever you go. The element of uniqueness is nonexistent.
Submersed by these problems, I wonder how we can contribute to local communities and what we can create. In Kiso, I cannot be content with just exhibiting what I have created. I hope my small contribution to this art exhibition will bring about a longawaited effect after the exhibition by leaving the local children with a precious gift. My desire is to transform the basement of this data hall, which is unsuitable as a place to live, into a cozy place for children to spend time, with the help of others. I hope this experience of converting tangible surroundings with our own hands will give us new abilities to change the world.