In life, I am grateful for the encounters wherever I go.
I used to live in Zushi. A friend (an American who grew up in Zushi) who lived in America told me that Zushi is a nice place, which prompted me to move to a place with no prior connection or ties.
When I move abroad, I basically have no plan. I'm not in a state of having a job or anything. First, I think it would be fun to make new acquaintances in a new place. Also, if you're of a certain age, I think making friends through work is the best way. So, I thought I'd try to find something here that only I can do.
Recalling the way I started working in the uncharted land of California (I might write about this again someday), I set off.
So, where did I appear? At the city hall. First question at the reception.
"Excuse me, I'm a newly relocated artist, is there anything I can do?" "??? (City Hall staff)" Of course. But the kind people at Zushi City Hall said, "Art?? Hmm, if it's art, maybe this?" and immediately introduced me to the relevant department. It turns out there's an event called the "Zushi Art Festival."
I was immediately introduced to the producer. At first, I said I'd be happy to help out as a volunteer, but later, fortunately, I was put in charge of the main art for the event... I was so happy.
So, for the painting, I first put my heart into researching Zushi. History, scenery... But since I had just moved, none of the elements really clicked. The connection was vague and I couldn't draw anything. Then I thought, "If someone living in Zushi draws it, it's already a Zushi artist's work." That's the approach I'll take.
When I showed them the painting, the producer initially had concerns, saying, "Personally, I like it, but I wonder what the city hall will think of it." (That's understandable, what part of this is Zushi!) But the graphic designer who was there was also quite an interesting person. Through the chemistry of the three of us, the designer and producer decided, "OK, let's go with this." ... I'm truly grateful. And the producer's copy, "Come on, Chaos," made it even more interesting.
Various matchups, it was good.
Then, we also talked about doing murals all over town, and when we announced the launch of the event at the community hall, we were asked if we wanted to do live painting, and if we wanted to exhibit art, and it just kept going. I was happy. I also got to know many other people, and received a lot of cooperation from everyone... As a stranger from overseas, I don't think I would be allowed to do something like this at this speed in an undeveloped land... normally. I truly felt the broad-mindedness and warmth of everyone.
They often say it's not about money, but it really isn't about money.
I have to tell my American friends that it was a good town after all.
I want to visit Zushi again soon
