Islands of creativity

A site-specific work for an art festival like the Setouchi Triennale requires the artists to learn and do research about the local community, the culture and the history, Lin says. That, she says, is an efficient method to know the people there.

Chinese musician and artist Zhu Zheqin, who's also known by her stage name, Dadawa, and Xiang Yang, an installation artist, will take part in the next year's triennial.

Zhu draws inspiration from various sounds from Shodoshima island and will produce a bell house. She will also write a song for Setouchi and develop a special app bringing together all the information needed to visit the island.

Artist Xiang Yang will produce a three-floor wooden boat named Next Island-made from discarded materials and old furniture-where he will invite other artists to display their work.

The triennial will span three seasons: The spring session from April 26 to May 26, the summer session from July 19 to Aug 25 and the autumn session from Sept 28 to Nov 4.

Visitors can also enjoy a considerable number of museums and permanent art installations from previous festivals that are scattered throughout the 12 islands. Dramas, dances and performances involving local people will also be staged.

After the end of the festival, the art installations will remain and a series of regular art events will continue to take place in the area for visitors.

"It's not just a 100-day festival. Art events go on during all the three years between each triennial," says Furamu.

Contact the writer at dengzhangyu@chinadaily.com.cn