Kobe Suma Sea World, operated by Gran Vista Hotel & Resort, is hosting a special collaborative workshop with Kobe Women's University and Matex, titled "Drawing a Sustainable Future Ocean with Mermaids." This initiative will take place on October 25th and 26th and aims to blend education and entertainment in an innovative way reflective of the concept of 'Edu-tainment.' In this engaging workshop, participants will utilize ASUKAMI® recycled paper to create fish-scale cards, upon which they can illustrate various sea creatures. The event offers a hands-on experience where students from Kobe Women's University will assist participants in adorning mermaid figures made from repurposed materials. These creations will be displayed at the Dolphin Hall after the workshop, allowing participants to take memorable photos with their mermaids.
Running concurrent to this workshop, from October 27th to 31st, additional marine-themed sculptures created by the students will also be showcased in the Dolphin Hall. This event represents a key part of the ongoing monthly program "SUMArt DAYS —Connecting with Sea and Smiles—,” which seeks to foster a connection among the local community and the beautiful coastal environment of Suma. The name "SUMArt" embodies the spirit of sustainability through the realms of Suma, Art, and Smart living.
This initiative is focused on raising awareness regarding the pressing marine debris crisis and encourages participants to think critically about the protective measures for our oceans. By engaging in creative expression through art, the event promotes understanding of sustainable practices while encouraging collaborative efforts to mitigate ocean pollution.
Workshop Details
The workshop will be held on:
1.
Date: October 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
2.
Date: October 26, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Location: Dolphin Hall, Dolphin Stadium, Kobe Suma Sea World.
Cost: Free (Entry to the aquarium is required for participation; event-only entry is not available). For further details, please visit the event's webpage.
Exhibition Overview
The mermaid creations and the killer whale sculptures by the students will be on display from October 27th to October 31st in Dolphin Hall. Participants will appreciate the artistic interpretations expressing the hope for cleaner, more vibrant seas.
Background on the Participants
Kobe Women's University, founded in 1966, has a rich history and is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life through education and research in home economics, ultimately aiming to contribute to society.
Matex was established in 1930 in Kobe, originally known as Matsumoto Obundo. The company is dedicated to supporting clients by integrating various sales promotion and printing solutions, continually embracing innovation in sustainability.
ASUKAMI® is a unique recycled paper developed by Matex, highlighting an initiative to address textile waste by transforming discarded clothing into functional paper products.
Kobe Suma Sea World stands out as a premier entertainment venue in Western Japan, blending learning and enjoyment through various marine exhibits and performances. The event epitomizes the commitment to educating attendees on sustainability and the crucial role of our oceans in ecological balance. This collaborative project not only engages the community but also inspires collective action toward a sustainable future. Join us in protecting our precious oceans and fostering a greater appreciation for marine life.