JCC E-Magazine April 2022

The Art of Living: Creative Communities in the 21st Century –Tottori and Kamiyama–

Overview

We were glad to have hosted "The Art of Living: Creative Communities in the 21st Century –Tottori and Kamiyama–" exhibition at JCC last month. It was a thoughtful showcase, and further insights were shared during the online talk by Dr Simone Chung and Associate Professor Motohiro Koizumi.

For this month's cultural articles, we will be taking a look at the thriving art islands of Naoshima, Teshima, and Shodoshima, as well as the history of obi. Do also follow us on our Facebook and Instagram to stay in touch with our events and learn more about Japan and Japanese culture!

Director's Message

Konnichiwa!

Spring arrived in Singapore last month, in the form of Sakura featuring tokidoki at Gardens by the Bay! I am delighted that I was able to appreciate the beautiful sight of blooming cherry blossoms once again this year, and I believe that it was a wonderful opportunity for all of the visitors to enjoy the view of spring in this tropical country. JCC also distributed multiple brochures related to Japan in the Flower Dome, and it was heartening to see everyone take a great interest in them. Did you take any of the brochures too? I hope they will be good reference for your next trip to Japan...(Click here to read more)

JCC Events

Opening Ceremony of The Art of Living: Creative Communities in the 21st Century –Tottori and Kamiyama–

The opening for "The Art of Living: Creative Communities in the 21st Century –Tottori and Kamiyama–" was held on 2 March 2022 at Japan Creative Centre. Both JCC Director Toru Furugori and Dr Simone Chung (Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture, National University of Singapore) were physically present to give their welcome remarks, and Associate Professor Motohiro...(Click here to read more)

Online Discussion: Contemporary Art Projects & Alternative Spaces

An online talk and discussion on contemporary art projects and alternative spaces by Dr. Simone Chung and Associate Professor Motohiro Koizumi was held on 8 March. This event was held in conjunction with our exhibition, “The Art of Living: Creative Communities in the 21st Century - Tottori and Kamiyama”. More than 40 participants joined the session during...(Click here to read more)

JCC Related Events

Sakura featuring tokidoki

Sakura is back at Gardens by the Bay! H.E. Ambassador Jun Yamazaki attended the opening event of Sakura featuring tokidoki at Gardens by the Bay (GBTB) on 4 March. Guests were mesmerized by beautiful flower arrangements by Ikebana International, followed by a vibrant music performance by Hibikiya. Later, guests enjoyed the blooming cherry blossoms on a guided tour. This Sakura floral display runs till 3 April...(Click here to read more)

Visits

Ambassador's Visit to The Art of Living: Creative Communities in the 21st Century –Tottori and Kamiyama–

On 7 March, H.E. Ambassador Jun Yamazaki visited an ongoing exhibition at JCC, “The Art of Living: Creative Communities in the 21st Century –Tottori and Kamiyama–.” Ambassador Yamazaki was guided by curator Dr. Simone Chung, Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture at the National University of Singapore. Dr. Chung introduced her case studies and art...(Click here to read more)

Courtesy Call to Dr Iskandar Jalil

JCC Director Mr Toru Furugori and Deputy Director Mr Yuki Hamada paid a courtesy call to Master Potter Dr Iskandar Jalil at his residence on 28 March 2022. Dr Iskandar shared his stories with them, and also discussed about future collaborations with JCC...(Click here to read more)

Cultural Articles

Art in the Islands

The Setouchi Islands that span the waters of the Seto Inland Sea are famed for their thriving art scene. Three islands in particular that fall within the jurisdiction of Kagawa prefecture are hotspots for art lovers, who visit for the array of art facilities, museums, and festivals they host. These islands are Naoshima, Teshima, and Shodoshima! Perhaps the most well-known of the...(Click here to read more)

Obi: Interweaving History and Fashion

There is much to admire about traditional Japanese wear: the elaborately embroidered swishing sleeves of furisode, and the elegant pleats of hakama; these indeed draw the viewer’s eye, but there is something else that ties the entire outfit together. This article of clothing is the obi. The obi (帯) is a type of sash that is worn with traditional Japanese clothing. It originated...(Click here to read more)

Japanese Cultural Fact for April

Start of the School Year

The Japanese school year begins in April. The first term runs to around July 20, when summer vacation begins. Kids return to school in early September for the second term, which lasts until about December 25. The final term begins in early January and continues to late March.

Most people think spring - when life begins anew - is the perfect time to start new things. Kids get excited and...(Click here to read more)

Notice

■ JCC is hiring a Project Assistant

■ The Japan Foundation grant program for FY2022 (Japanese / English)

■ Enjoy Free Japanese Lessons here on NHK World!

Notices regarding the COVID-19 situation

■ JCC has updated our Safety Measures

■ Japanese Government Initiatives for COVID-19

■ Embassy of Japan in Singapore Facebook