An artist who leaves no records descends upon Enoura Observatory! Experience a time when nature and art resonate together.

Go, see, and experience the world of art
File.20 Tino Sehgal @ Enoura Observatory yet untitled
Miyuki Inoue (Magcal Editorial Department)

The Enoura Observatory of the Odawara Cultural Foundation is an art space designed by contemporary artist Hiroshi Sugimoto. Located on a site overlooking the sea, it features buildings utilizing cutting-edge technology, historical structures, and stones with various stories, creating a uniquely captivating space that is difficult to describe.

On October 4, 2019, "Tino Sehgal @ Enoura Observatory yet untitled" began here. While the observatory has previously hosted performances of traditional arts, this is the first contemporary art project since its opening in October 2017.

Tino Sehgal was born in London in 1976 and is currently based in Berlin. He recently choreographed for the Paris Opera Ballet, but he is known for his spontaneous, happening-style works that leave no record whatsoever. In other words, his works remain only in the memories of the visitors who witness them.

"My work is four-dimensional (*Editor's note: three dimensions + time axis) . I have no problem with it being recorded in text, but I don't want it to be captured as a photograph or video and preserved as a two-dimensional work," (Segal).

After checking in at the waiting area, you pass through the "Meigetsumon Gate," which was built during the Muromachi period as the main gate of Meigetsuin Temple, a temple of the Kenchoji branch of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism, and head towards the location where Mr. Segal's "live work" will be held.
On this particular day, perhaps because a typhoon had passed in the distance, the sea and sky stretched out as blue as in midsummer, but the wind was strong, causing the surrounding trees to rustle loudly.
Since "Live Work" takes place outdoors, the audience will be influenced by the temperature, the weather, and the color of the sea. It's about experiencing nature as part of the art.

The "live work" takes place at the "outdoor tea ceremony area" further ahead. There, several "interpreters" use their voices and bodies to create a unique space in harmony with the sounds of the wind and birdsong.

"I am drawn to Japan because the gap between nature and culture (things created by humans) is small, and the traditional world and the modern world are connected. In particular, this place allows me to express myself while feeling the sea and nature, so presenting live work here is meaningful to me," (Segal).

Since photography is strictly prohibited during the "live work," I took some pictures of the sea, sky, and trees surrounding the outdoor tea ceremony area. There are no set times or rules for each action; like the wind blowing across the sea, the beginning and end are left to each individual. I wonder if you can feel the "artistic time" that this captures?

Incidentally, the museum will remain open for viewing as usual during the project, and the admission fee will be the same as normal. Take your time to explore and carefully admire the latest architecture, such as the optical glass stage and the 100-meter gallery for viewing the summer solstice light, as well as historical buildings and Mr. Sugimoto's artwork.

We spoke with Mr. Sugimoto, the founder of the foundation.
"This is our first time undertaking a contemporary art project, but it came about thanks to Tino's passionate vision. One of the founding principles of the Enoura Observatory is to allow people to enjoy art amidst the nature of Odawara. After watching today's live work, I felt a wonderful sense of unity with the sounds of the wind and birdsong, and I was reminded once again that it has a strong affinity with Tino's worldview."

This event has ended.
《Tino Sehgal @ Enoura Observatory yet untitled》
[Period] October 4th to November 4th, 2019
[Venue] Odawara Cultural Foundation Enoura Observatory
[Visiting Hours] Morning session (10:00-13:00) / Afternoon session (13:30-16:30)
[Closed days] Tuesdays and Wednesdays, New Year holidays, and other temporary closures.
[Fee]
- If purchasing in advance online: Morning session, afternoon session: 3000 yen (excluding tax)
・For same-day tickets: Morning session, afternoon session: 3500 yen (excluding tax)
*If the venue is full, same-day tickets will not be sold.
* The "Tino Sehgal @ Enoura Observatory yet untitled " exhibition is included in the above admission fee.