Due to recent move-outs and downsizing of government offices, Kanchogaidori, the central avenue of the city which literally means “government office street,” has noticeably become desolate despite its name.¬† In an effort to revive the street, Towada City has begun the Arts Towada Project, for the improvement of the cityscape and future town planning in Japan.

In this project, an outdoor space, namely Kanchogaidori, is transformed into a museum, with a variety of artworks all along the street.¬† Such a project is very unique and rare, even when considered on a global scale.¬† Furthermore, with the harmony of the artworks and Towada’s beautiful nature and rich history, as well as the local vitality, Towada aims to be recognized as “City of Arts” and “City of Inspiration and Creation.”

The Arts Towada Project is planned to be completed in the spring of 2010; events leading up to the completion includes: the 2008 opening of the Towada Art Center, the central facility for the project; renovation of the former tax office site; and installation of the artwork symbolizing the project.

Arts Towada is a project to place various works of art in the Towada Art Center and Kanchogaidori over a period of 5 years.‚ÄÇThe concept behind the project is the “symbiosis of the city, nature, and art” and “experiences through art.”‚ÄÇIn the Towada Art Center, there are 22 artworks by 21 artists in and outside Japan, inspired by the dialogue with the local cityscape, nature, and people.

Each artwork was created exclusively for the Art Center, and the design of the building was catered to the works; thus, there is an unmatched intimacy between the building and the artworks.‚ÄÇYou will find art throughout the facility, not only in exhibition rooms; the Art Center is full of surprise for a new art experience.

• Tags: Art, Design, Japan, Landscape Design, museums