Culmination video piece and gouache series of my experience at Omnicent, an artist residency in Ukiha, Japan.

On the day I arrived in Ukiha, Ryoko, Nori and I visited 李椿　リチュン ceramic shop—a lucky opportunity since he only opens a few times a month. We went around meeting the various shop owners, stopped by a musician’s centuries year old traditional house, went to a kimono rental housed in a western American style cabin, and had dinner at a Michelin star South Indian dinner spot. Many unexpected events that left me a little confused about where I was. By the day’s end we hadn’t stopped moving, and Ryoko told me how the days here are “slow but full.” I found that to be exactly true throughout my stay. A rhythm that prioritizes depth over speed.

As an outsider, I was often physically outside while exploring the neighborhoods, admiring the weathered facades and nature. This external experience was juxtaposed with very personal meetings with the local artisans and community. They were generous in sharing their philosophies, processes and inspirations and collections. Many of the masters worked in multiple mediums outside their main craft. This video captures Ukiha’s relaxed yet rich energy through this steady movement, as well as the beauty of these external / internal experiences. Nori Tanaka recorded the track, adding another layer of local artistry. Thanks to Chinatown Soup NYC 📡✨. This Soup Satellite initiative is creating pathways for artists and connecting friends from around the world — more soon.