Stratums, by Tanya Preminger, is a fun artwork that has been around since 2013. It was built for the 2013 Setouchi Triennale and has been there ever since. I was lucky enough to be able to visit it back in 2013 but it was completed just in time so I couldn’t fully appreciate it as it was intended. In 2016 I attended the summer edition of the Triennale so it was unfortunately not worthwhile for me to visit Shamijima, the location of Stratums, at that time.
Stratums is a very playful artwork that is basically a large berm of earth with a double helix of ramps leading to the top of a cone shaped pyramid. It is a child’s delight as they can run up and down while screaming at the top of their lungs. Being located in a park I can imagine that children really loved this artwork.
Back in 2013, I arrived after they recently finished it. The problem with the spring edition is that a lot of artworks are still being worked on and sometimes they are late. Summer is a better season as things are more complete. In 2013, Stratums was still nothing more than a dirt mound and the grass had barely started growing on it. I have seen photos of it with lush grass on the side and it did look much better, although running up to the top was still a lot of fun whether you are a little or big kid.
By default, we tend to think “Green is better”… And I mean, yes, it’s grass, so green tends to be better for grass.
But actually, I love how it changes colors with the season, as it’s alive and has become fully part of the landscape, which is in my opinion when land art is successful.
And indeed, my kids love it… and I love chasing them on it too…
Hopefully in 3 years I’ll see it in spring, or maybe they can make Shamijima an all year island. I don’ see why not to be honest.
Same.
I see why the Western islands don’t do it year-round (they don’t really have the logistics for it, and probably the locals are not as much into it), but Shamijima only in the Spring doesn’t make sense in my opinion.
Especially because Sakaide city is really trying to capitalize on the Triennale, and the spot is already quite touristy (if only because of the Great Seto Bridge memorial park) had has the facilities to welcome many people.
Also, the main art site (the former school) has been renovated last year.
There’s one thing I’m missing here, and I’m not sure what it is.
I understand the western islands, but I would like to see them make those year round too. Not holding my breath though.
For Shamijima, maybe costs are a problem? Maybe they have to pay for the extra bus service? Or there are not enough volunteers? No clue to be honest. Unless the school is actually used for something.