The background of this decision comes from a mysterious "guidance" that I feel, arising from the convergence of several events happening at once.

The end of the pandemic, global circumstances, and the state of the art market in Japan and around the world are all factors involved, but mainly it is tied to a few significant personal life changes.

 

In the past few years, there have been rapid and significant changes.

I have experienced some very painful and difficult times.

Like any human, I have cried in sorrow and been consumed by anger.

 

Even now, I think some of the wounds in my heart have not fully healed.

 

However, when I look at all these events from a broader perspective...

I feel that everything is happening at the perfect timing, and that one day, I will look back and feel that this was for the best.

 

This sense of foretelling comes from my long solo travel experience.

 

And when I connect all the dots of these events, I have decided to let go of everything in Japan—my job, home, and studio—and make the decision to leave at this moment.

It feels like the right time to embark on this journey.

 

Honestly, I have strong anxiety and fear about moving forward as an Asian artist in the heart of the Western world.

 

In a foreign land with different culture and language, I wonder what I can possibly do as a person.

I even question whether I can manage to succeed.

And when I start thinking about it, I almost feel like I don’t want to go at all.

 

But then, a calm voice inside me says:

You can never know until you try.

You won’t know unless you go.

In life, it’s better not to regret not trying.

If I don’t go now, I’m sure I’ll never go.

Is that really okay?

 

Even if this challenge ends in failure, it is not really a failure; it’s just one more life experience added.

And seeing this challenge, failures included, will allow someone else to learn something from it.

I believe there’s something they can gain from it too.

 

...

Of course, leaving Japan is lonely.

I love Japan deeply.

The culture, the food, the safety, the nature, and the technology—all of it is beautiful.

 

I am incredibly proud to have been born and raised in this country.

 

And most importantly, I love the people of Japan.

No, I actually love them.

 

This country is my precious "home" and the place I always want to live.

I aim to grow to the point where I can give back, even a little, to this amazing country.

Also, if I find a way to thrive in the art world there, I hope to become a bridge for Japanese art and artists.

 

Finally, before I leave, I would like to announce my last domestic solo exhibition and event.

 

The exhibition will be held from April 12th to 15th in Ota-ku, Tokyo.

If the timing works, please come by!

 

Details are written in a separate article, so please check it out.

https://kota-yoshida.com/atelier-ume-8/