Cultural networking between Japan & the U.S.
Nishiawakura is passionate about developing and sustaining cross-cultural networking with various locations in the USA and other parts of the world. Below you can see what has been accomplished so far between the village and the green mountain state of Vermont.
Funded by The Japan Foundation, New York
Our grassroots mission
Both Japan and the United States face common challenges. Whether addressing climate change, responding to social and economic justice, or preserving cultural, spiritual, and aesthetic traditions, both countries benefit when there are examples of how local communities can collaborate and exchange ideas that bring hope to the future. Expanding perception, developing cross-cultural relationships, learning from the stories of others, witnessing and experiencing the interplay between creativity and nature, and caring for all members of society are characteristics that drive this initiative.
In short, the rationale for a Japan and United States collaboration such as our project is to expand inquiry skills, imagination, and cultural empathy when facing today’s challenges. We will strive to bring humility, discovery, and joy when opening ourselves up to each other’s experiences.
Specifically, in this project we aim to create a grassroots partnership between Nishiawakura and Shelburne Craft School, which is nestled in a rural community in Vermont, USA. These two communities have a deep commitment to the arts, environment, cultural and ethical sustainability. This partnership would lead to cross- cultural understanding, exchange, and inspiration by cultivating relationships with artists, environmentalists, educators, and community members.
Questions that will guide us
Through active experiences in webinars, workshops, presentations and a residency in Nishiawakura, this project will cultivate an on-going exchange of perspectives and ideas on the indispensable role art has on cultural identity, links between art and social and environmental justice, and cultural humility to address underserved populations.
Questions to help guide the objectives of this project include:
1) How will the exchange of ideas and practices between two rural communities in Japan and USA with strong traditions in the arts address global concerns such as environmental and social justice?
2) How will examples of the Japanese approach to the creative process, spirituality, and stewardship of nature expand knowledge of Japanese culture and inspire on-going Japanese influence on artistic and educational practices in Vermont, USA?
3) What can the Nishiawakura, Japan community learn from the Shelburne Craft School’s programming, partners, community resources, and the activities associated with this project?
4) How will a cross-cultural exchange enrich capacity for both communities to meet the needs of underserved populations?
5) How will a cross-cultural exchange deepen awareness of the interplay between tradition and contemporary?