Photo by Asuka Takagi
As the residencies continue, Hsiao-Hsuan Jian and Asuka Takagi are further developing their artistic projects, drawing inspiration from the region’s architecture, craftsmanship, landscape and local community.
Architecture, Materials and Memory
During the first month, Hsiao-Hsuan Jian has been exploring the relationship between architecture, traditional crafts and community memories. Visits to local workshops, historic houses and stone quarries have inspired her research into how materials and buildings preserve traces of human activity.
These encounters have informed two developing projects. The Grain of Place (紋脈) documents the textures and patterns of materials such as stone, wood and metal through photography, drawing and painting. Her second project, Inhabiting Absence – Architecture of Second Lives, examines how vacant traditional houses, known as akiya, can be restored and adapted for contemporary life while retaining their architectural character and history.
Photographs courtesy of Hsiao-Hsuan Jian.
More about Hsiao-Hsuan’s observations and reflections in her Journal on 24 SETSU.
Navigating the Creative Process
For Asuka, the past weeks have brought new encounters, discoveries and inspiration. Almost a month into her residency, she reflects positively on the people she has met and the places she has explored in the region.
The creative process has also brought some challenges. Asuka recently experienced a moment of uncertainty while working in the studio, but remains optimistic about finding her direction and moving her work forward in the coming weeks.
Photographs and video courtesy of Asuka Takagi.
More Stories from Gotsu Coming Soon
Juliette Huygen, another artist selected for AKIYA AIR IWAMI 2026, is also arriving in Japan to begin their residency in Gotsu. Stay tuned for updates on Juliette’s encounters and discoveries!