About the artwork

The Philosophical Foundation of ETAT and the Artist’s Journey
The artist graduated with a master’s degree in natural sciences from the University of Pennsylvania in 1965 and later worked as an environmental planner upon returning to Japan. In 1996, the artist played a pivotal role in establishing the foundational concept of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale (ETAT), which is deeply intertwined with the local community. This initiative stemmed from a request for advice on conceptualisation from Kitagawa Fram. Spanning from badge and print works dating back to the 1960s to projects developed post-2000, this exhibition revolves around local resources such as wind, water, land, and cultural society. It mirrors the artist’s core principle of honouring the journey that leads to contemporary art and environmental planning. ETAT, alongside other art festivals, serves as a practical manifestation of this creative ethos. In this iteration of ETAT, new elements have been introduced, including a photograph of the “”Work 64, 3, 4″” from the MoMA collection, as well as displays featuring works, materials, and videos from various other art festivals.