The Setouchi Triennale, which is now in its fifth edition, started in 2010 under the mission “Restoration of the Sea,” aiming to revitalize island communities that once had thrived yet continued to diminish in vitality due to effects of modernization. The joy of visiting the islands with art as one’s guide, learning the distinct culture, and interacting with the local community had attracted many visitors. Over one million people visited the Setouchi Triennale during its previous edition, with the Setouchi region also being selected as the number one recommended travel destination by the National Geographic Traveler magazine. In this way, the true appeal of Setouchi, as both a cultural and geographical hub of Japan, was widely communicated on a global scale.

However, due to the pandemic we are unable to invite visitors from abroad, neither can we receive the support of overseas participants who accounted for half of the 8,000 supporters we had for the previous triennale. What is more, the majority of artists taking part from overseas were unable to come to Japan, including their initial site visit. Despite this, they each made a remarkable effort to create site-specific artworks that were in themselves a reflection of our times and situation.

Many artists participating in the triennale, in particular those of Russian nationality, find themselves deeply pained and saddened by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Unfortunately, many difficulties are still faced in the context of expression that extends beyond national borders. Nevertheless, it is true that under such circumstances, each individual seeks for empathy and collaboration. We hope that the Setouchi Triennale, while firmly grounding itself in the local region and community, will turn its eyes and thoughts to connect with the world as a whole.

Please enjoy the latest works by Tadao Ando, Hiroshi Sugimoto, Yayoi Kusama, Hiroshi Sambuichi, Heather B. Swann + Nonda Katsalidis, Noe Aoki, Leonid Tishkov, Mounir Fatmi, Sopheap Pich, Stasys Eidrigevicius and others that are presented on this occasion though a photographic tour of the islands.