Connecting Nature and Art: The Wood Structure Art Project in Tochigi, Japan

Connecting Nature and Art: The Wood Structure Art Project in Tochigi

The Department of Architecture at Tokyo Denki University has embarked on an innovative project called the "Wood Structure Art Project" at the Kirenagawa Family Campground in Sakura City, Tochigi Prefecture. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving three universities: Tokyo Denki University, Kyoritsu Women's University, and Hokkai Gakuen University. The project aims to create artistic installations using locally sourced timber from Tochigi Prefecture, promoting environmental sustainability and revitalizing the forestry sector. Set to span five years, it started in 2024 with a target completion date set for 2028.

Creating Spaces of Nature and Art

Led by Professor Masamichi Sasaya, the Architecture Structure Laboratory at Tokyo Denki University is working on developing spaces that harmoniously blend nature with art. One of their notable creations is the Komorin, an interactive sculpture designed to allow children attending the campground to climb, run around, and explore the natural environment. Adults can also enjoy a moment of relaxation while experiencing the beauty of filtered sunlight through the trees.

The students involved in the project took on multiple roles, from design to safety assessments, material procurement, and cost management, embracing the entire production process. Despite the challenges posed by bad weather during the construction phase, they managed to complete the Komorin in time for the project unveiling.

Going forward, the Sasaya Laboratory plans to continue their efforts in creating a sustainable society through art and architecture, utilizing locally sourced timber in tandem with community residents.

Learning Architecture Amidst Nature

This year, approximately 20 architecture students from the three universities participated in the project. The initial meeting in April marked the beginning of countless collaborative discussions, both online and on-site, leading to field research and design workshops. The students crafted various playful and decorative objects from Tochigi timber, transforming the campgrounds into an engaging space. The installation and finishing touches were executed on-site, where students engaged in enriching experiences such as visiting logging sites and planting trees with elementary school children, fostering a direct connection to the forest and appreciation for wood as a material.

The unveiling event, held on September 6, attracted around 150 attendees, including representatives from 21 sponsoring companies, allowing children and families to enjoy the artistic contributions firsthand.

About the Department of Architecture at Tokyo Denki University

Under the guidance of Professor Masamichi Sasaya, the Architecture Structure Laboratory is dedicated to solving architectural engineering mechanisms through experimental and analytical approaches. The laboratory works in close collaboration with private companies and governmental organizations to respond to societal needs by researching the performance and design methodologies of hybrid structures combining various materials through structural analysis and full-scale experimentation.

This innovative Wood Structure Art Project not only showcases architectural creativity but also embodies a significant step towards fostering environmental consciousness and community engagement. By combining art, education, and sustainability, the project presents a valuable framework for future initiatives geared towards enriching the relationship between people and nature.