Discovering Japan: Beauty and Plastic
On our trips to Japan, we are captivated by the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and thoughtful design. Yet, plastic packaging is everywhere, with produce in supermarkets wrapped in multiple layers of it. As we prepare for our Itoshima artist residency, we reflect on plastic pollution and our commitment to inspire change through art.
Our connection to Japan runs deep, especially for Bob, who has a lifelong bond with this incredible country. His journey began as a young boy visiting Japan with his parents and later grew into a transformative experience when he spent nearly a year studying Japanese and working in Tokyo. Together, we have explored Japan over the years, often wandering off the beaten path to discover its hidden gems and immerse ourselves in its rich culture.
One memory that stands out is the first time we stepped into a Japanese supermarket—heaven for any food and minimal design lover. The vibrant displays fascinate us, showcasing everything from perfectly shaped fruits to beautifully designed lunch boxes. It’s a sensory delight, reflecting the artistry and care that goes into food presentation in Japan. However, as we admired the beauty around us, we couldn’t help but notice that nearly every fresh item was individually wrapped in multiple layers of plastic—for us, it sparked a conversation about the balance between aesthetics and sustainability.
As we prepare for our upcoming residency at Studio Kura in Itoshima, we are reminded of the pressing environmental issues affecting Japan’s beautiful coastlines, particularly the challenge of plastic trash.
Plastic packaging in supermarkets, vending machines and fish market. Photo’s by Bob.
A Regional Challenge
The plastic pollution problem along Japan’s coastlines is not just a local issue. According to various studies and reports from environmental organizations, much of the plastic debris found along Japan’s shores comes not only from domestic sources but also from neighboring countries like China and South Korea. It’s estimated that around 70% to 80% of marine debris in Japan may originate from overseas, although this figure can vary by region.
Organizations like the Plastic Soup Foundation in the Netherlands and ECO JAPAN in Japan are working hard to educate the public about reducing plastic use and promoting sustainable practices. We encourage you to get involved in local clean-up efforts or to make small changes in their daily lives to cut down on plastic waste.
Our Commitment
As we embark on this journey, we are dedicated to raising awareness about these important issues through our art. Inspired by the beauty of Japan’s coastlines, we hope to create works that not only highlight the urgent need for action against plastic pollution but also inspire others to think about their relationship with the environment. Our artistic projects aim to spark conversations and encourage a deeper understanding of the challenges we all face, both locally and regionally.
For more information on Japan’s plastic pollution problem and what you can do to help, check out these resources:
We invite you to join us in exploring the wonders of Japan and advocating for a cleaner, more sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference!
