The Setouchi International Art Festival 2025, a vibrant celebration of contemporary art, officially opened on April 18, 2025, captivating audiences across the scenic islands of Kagawa Prefecture in the Seto Inland Sea. This biennial festival, which has been held since 2010, aims to merge art with the region's rich natural beauty and cultural heritage, showcasing the works of artists from around the world.
During the opening ceremony at the Kagawa Prefectural Arena in Takamatsu, Governor Toyohito Ikeda declared the festival open with an enthusiastic "Let’s have fun together!" The event marks the sixth iteration of the festival, which has grown significantly over the years. This year, a record 256 works by 218 artists from 37 countries and regions will be displayed across 17 different venues, including 11 islands and six coastal areas in Kagawa and Okayama prefectures.
The festival is divided into three sessions: spring, summer, and autumn, spanning a total of 107 days. The spring session runs until May 25, 2025, featuring ten venues such as Inujima, Uno Port, Naoshima, Teshima, and Ogijima. Approximately 180 works are being showcased during this initial phase, with many visitors already flocking to experience the innovative art installations.
Governor Ikeda, who also serves as the chairman of the executive committee, expressed his hopes for the festival, stating, "I hope that the new works by world-class artists and the art that blends with the nature, culture, and history of the Seto Inland Sea will captivate everyone." His sentiments were echoed by Victoria Lee, the Swedish Ambassador to Japan, who attended the ceremony and remarked, "Setouchi Art connects people to people, countries to countries, and art to nature." This year, works by Swedish artists will also be exhibited on Ogijima, thanks to cooperation from the Embassy.
The opening ceremony was a lively affair, attended by around 600 guests, including approximately 60 artists. A fanfare played on the trumpet heralded the commencement of the festival, and a unique performance by local artist Mafuyu involved waving a large white flag to burst balloons, releasing smaller blue balloons into the air. Mafuyu explained, "The Seto Inland Sea is a place where the wind blows well. The flag that raises and catches the wind is a symbol of the wind. Waving the flag is a good connection and is also a challenge."
The festival not only celebrates art but also aims to revitalize the depopulating and aging islands of the region. It has become a significant cultural event, drawing approximately 1 million visitors each time it is held. This year, with the festival coinciding with the Osaka-Kansai Expo, expectations are high for record attendance.
As visitors explore the installations, they are treated to a diverse array of artistic expressions that reflect the unique character of the Seto Inland Sea. One notable piece is Kim Sooja's "TOWER," which features hands and tubes appearing to emerge from holes in the sky. A visitor from Tsuyama City remarked, "The colors are vibrant, and the impact is interesting because it blends in with the scenery of the sea." Such interactions between art and the environment are central to the festival's mission.
Looking ahead, the summer session will take place from August 1 to 31, followed by the autumn session from October 3 to November 9. This staggered schedule allows for continual engagement with the art and the environment, making it a dynamic experience for returning visitors.
In conclusion, the Setouchi International Art Festival 2025 is not just an exhibition of contemporary art but a celebration of the cultural and natural heritage of the Seto Inland Sea. With its ambitious scope and international participation, the festival promises to be a memorable experience for both local residents and visitors from afar, all while contributing to the revitalization of the region.
