I guess the Wara Art Festival is another “only in Japan” kinda thing. Where local farmers collaborate with young artists creating some out-of-this-world sculptures transporting us into a magical scenery in the Japanese countryside. Not surprisingly I am asking myself, why is this not done anywhere else?
Tell Me More
About 2h drive from Tokyo in Niigata, a prefecture famous for its rice, every year in autumn, just after harvest the fields turn into huge outdoor galleries. With local farmers inviting students from well-known Musashino Art University in Tokyo to showcase their talent and create sculptures that will transport you into another realm.
What started in 2006, with a few exhibits has since grown into a full festival. With more sculptures being added each year. With bigger definitely being better in this case. As this local festival has grown, aside from the beautiful straw sculptures you will also find markets, workshops, and even small performances. Making it well worth a day trip from Tokyo. But of course, the majestic sculptures are still the main reason why people are visiting.
When & Where
The Wara Art Festival is held every year in late August at the Uwasekigata Park with the beautiful sculptures being showcased until the end of October (depending on the weather of course). Check their homepage for updates as these dates are not set in stone and for those of you who cannot visit, you can also check out their Facebook page for some behind-the-scenes insights.
But now, lets have a look at these amazing artworks and don’t miss the Video at the end…
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