Promoting Culture and Arts to Rescue Amami Island's Heritage

Amami Oshima, a stunning island in the Kagoshima Prefecture, has recently launched an exciting initiative to safeguard its rich cultural and natural heritage amid the looming threat of high-rise hotel developments. Managed by Boutique Star Corporation, the 'Ryukyu Villa - a stayable art museum' has established the 'Artist-in-Residence for Rescuing Amami's Crisis' initiative on June 16. This program aims to combat environmental degradation and cultural dilution through culture and arts activities.

Amami Oshima, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts remarkably preserved natural landscapes and a unique cultural tapestry. However, the island is currently facing potential threats from large-scale constructions similar to those observed in Miyakojima and Ishigakijima, which strip away natural resources and erode cultural legacies. The establishment of high-rise hotels could damage the picturesque scenery and contribute to severe environmental issues. The local communities in areas like Setsuta and Ashitoku have spurred actions against these developments, highlighting a growing concern about the impact of inadequate planning by real estate developers.

The proposed construction of these hotels raises significant issues:

- Landscape destruction
- Pollution impacting marine biodiversity
- Environmental degradation from deforestation and excavation
- Traffic congestion and accidents in local communities
- Rising living costs leading to housing issues for young people returning to the island
- Dilution of spiritual and cultural practices

In light of these challenges, our organization believes that raising awareness about the unique environmental culture of Amami Oshima—which people have cultivated over time—will foster greater understanding of sustainable practices and appropriate living arrangements on the island. Bringing artists from around the world to immerse themselves in Amami’s environment and express their interpretations through art is a key strategy. The artworks created will be displayed in various venues, including local museums, galleries abroad, and embassies in Tokyo, promoting the island's environmental culture alongside its pressing regional issues.

Recent years have showcased how cultural and artistic endeavors significantly address social challenges. Notable examples include the Setouchi Triennale and the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, which enhance community ties and stimulate economic revival. Similarly, the 'Artist-in-Residence for Rescuing Amami's Crisis' program aims to contribute towards environmental conservation and cultural preservation on Amami Oshima.

In collaboration with the Agency for Cultural Affairs, which supports artist-in-residence programs as part of regional cooperation projects, our initiative seeks to engage with pressing challenges while leveraging the expertise and creativity of participating artists. We plan to provide artists with complimentary accommodations at the 'Ryukyu Villa,' where they'll have the opportunity to stay and create.

About Ryukyu Villa

The Ryukyu Villa is an established art villa that integrates traditional Ryukyu architectural techniques with modern design, featuring roughly 2800㎡ of space that houses works by artists related to Amami Oshima. Since its establishment in May 2022, the villa has been a prominent destination for artists looking to create and engage with the local culture and environment deeply.

Now, more than ever, as we launch our special Artist-in-Residence program, we must ensure the continuation of Amami Oshima's environmental culture. Like previous artist-in-residence programs, recent invited artists have produced works that beautifully encapsulate the island's charm and essence. Engaging local media and communities, these artists contribute to a more vibrant cultural landscape, showcasing the island's unique identity and issues through their art.

For a sustainable future, programs like the 'Artist-in-Residence for Rescuing Amami's Crisis' serve an important role in protecting the community and its natural heritage, ensuring that the island’s unique culture is preserved for generations to come. Together, we strive to illuminate the beauty and significance of Amami Oshima, advocating for responsible development that honors its cultural and environmental legacy.

For more details about our initiative, visit our official sites: Ryukyu Villa and Artist-in-Residence.