Installation. Recycled books, tree leaves
Kobe Art Project
Kobe, Japan
Fish Beans: Takao
Event organizer: Tetsuyaki
2023
Shinrin-Yoku is an installation based on the Japanese practice of forest bathing, making contact with the forest and taking in its atmosphere. The space, made entirely of donated books allows visitors to experience a spiritual connection with nature. The pages flow in forms of both water and vegetal life, a symbol of immersion within nature’s sanctuary. Visitors can wind through the path to find a secret zen garden made of individually cut Japanese symbols, the circles within the garden like a tree ring. A makimono made of real leaves hangs above the garden, holding all the knowledge of the forest and makes a link with all the scrolls of book pages made to create this metaphysical world.
The Collaborative Process Behind the Installation
The creation of this monumental art installation began with the involvement of a local women’s university, whose students actively participated in collecting books from the city and preparing the materials by gluing the pages into rolls. These rolls were intentionally crafted to evoke the cultural and historical significance of ancient Japanese scrolls, or makimono, symbolizing the origins of books and storytelling through artistic imagery.
Once on-site in Kobe, the project evolved into a vibrant, community-driven collaboration. Locals of all ages joined the effort, including the curator’s own mother, who came to lend a hand. Together with women from the university, they worked to glue the base and bring the installation to life.
This collective effort transformed the installation into more than just a work of art; it became a profound exchange of ideas and experiences. It demonstrated that art has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, uniting people through the shared act of creation. The resulting space embodies a spirit of nature and harmony, fostering a unique sense of connection within the community.
