Solo Art Adventure on Naoshima Island

Art in Motion, Tea in Stillness

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of movement and stillness that only Naoshima could offer. It was a day where the mechanical grace of George Rickey's sculptures met the quiet contemplation of a traditional tea, creating a harmony that resonated deeply within me.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at maimai. Fuelled up with a traditional Japanese breakfast, I set out to find the George Rickey sculpture, 'Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, 1972-82'. I always find it fascinating how art interacts with its environment, and Rickey's kinetic sculptures are a perfect example. The way the squares moved with the breeze, against the backdrop of the Seto Inland Sea, was mesmerizing. The stainless-steel squares have a technoid surface, which serves to further underline the impression of weight of the three squares.


Experience the captivating movement of George Rickey's Three Squares Vertical Diagonal, a kinetic sculpture blending art and nature on the enchanting island of Naoshima.

"Art is not what you see, but what you make others see."

It's interesting to consider that the version of 'Three Squares Vertical Diagonal' on Naoshima is actually one of two larger versions of the piece. The movement of the squares, almost as if they were cubes, creates a dialogue with the surroundings, a dance between the man-made and the natural. Standing there, watching the sculpture sway, I was reminded of my own journey, the constant push and pull between my life in Berlin and my roots in Costa Rica.

Next on the agenda was a moment of quiet reflection – drinking a cup of tea. Finding a quiet spot, I savored the simplicity of the moment. The gentle warmth of the cup, the subtle flavors of the tea, it was a perfect counterpoint to the kinetic energy of the sculpture. It reminded me of the importance of finding stillness amidst the chaos, a lesson I often need to remind myself of, especially with the constant buzz of technology in my life.


Experience the serene blend of art and tea at Naoshima's enchanting 'Drink a Cup of Tea' - a must-visit for art and tea lovers alike.

Before lunch, I had to swing by the Chichu Art Museum Ticket Center. While I wasn’t planning on visiting the museum today, securing a ticket for another day is essential, given its popularity. The Chichu Art Museum operates on a reservation system, so purchasing tickets online in advance is strongly recommended. The Ticket Center Shop sells beverages and some Chichu Store merchandise. I secured my ticket for later in the week and even picked up a small cleaning cloth designed with Monet's Water Lilies.


Explore the enchanting Chichu Art Museum Ticket Center, your gateway to contemporary art on the scenic island of Naoshima.

Lunch at Luke's Table was a delightful experience. The restaurant prides itself on using local ingredients and traditional Japanese cooking methods with French-inspired recipes. It’s a French-Japanese fusion that really works. The Seto Inland Sea is a treasure trove of unique ingredients. Naoshima is nestled between Hiroshima and Shikoku, the sea surrounding Naoshima is abundant with seafood. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel after a morning of art and contemplation.


Discover Luke's Table: A culinary haven on Naoshima offering exquisite Italian dishes and delightful breakfast options in an artistic paradise.

As the sun began to dip lower, I made my way to Restaurant EN for dinner. Restaurant EN is known for its modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine. The ambiance was sophisticated yet welcoming, and the food was a work of art in itself. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented, a testament to the chef's skill and creativity.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at this charming restaurant in Naoshima, where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Naoshima embodies the spirit of balance. The island seamlessly blends art, nature, and culture, creating an experience that is both stimulating and serene. The kinetic art of George Rickey, the simple act of drinking tea, and the culinary delights of Luke's Table and Restaurant EN all contributed to this sense of harmony.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Naoshima's artistic offerings, including the Benesse House Park and the Art House Project: Haisha. I’m particularly excited about the Art House Project, which aims to revitalize old, abandoned houses on the island and turn them into unique art spaces. And perhaps in the evening I'll check out maimai again, but this time as a bar, to see how the atmosphere changes from day to night.

I'm also reminded that I should probably pick up that sunscreen I forgot to pack. It's easy to get lost in the art and forget about the practicalities of travel. But as much as I love spontaneity, a little preparation can go a long way. Especially when it comes to protecting my skin from the sun.

As I settle in for the night, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for this unique island and the experiences it has offered me. Naoshima is more than just an art destination; it's a place where you can find a sense of peace and connection, a place where art and life intertwine in the most beautiful way.

I am also reminded of Lena and our shared love for art and travel. I know she would have enjoyed this day as much as I did. Perhaps one day, we'll return to Naoshima together, and I can share these experiences with her firsthand. Until then, I'll continue to explore and share my journey, hoping to inspire others to seek out their own adventures and find beauty in the world around them.