In the Cold Winter, Find Warmth in Art at Towada Modern Art Museum

Due to a significant train delay, I decided to stay overnight in Towada. After checking in, I took a stroll to the nearby Towada Modern Art Museum. Although it's called an art museum, it actually integrates urban landscaping. While walking, I discovered a Yayoi Kusama piece installed in the plaza. From the introduction, I learned that due to the declining population in Towada, the city began collaborating with artists in 2008 to transform Towada into a city of art. Upon entering the exhibition hall, I was struck by a four-meter-tall standing woman sculpture. Her melancholic expression and the gaze she returned captivated me deeply. Korean artist Seo Do-ho's work, Cause and Effect, is a nine-meter-tall giant resin sculpture with a gradient of transparent, orange, and red, resembling an alien invasion. It magnificently portrays the cycle of life and death. My favorite piece is Yoshitomo Nara's YOROSHIKU girl. With simple lines, it magically conveys emotions of rebellion, anger, smile, and sadness. If you visit Oirase Gorge or Lake Towada, spare a few hours to appreciate the beautiful works left by artists in this small town. 📍Address: 〒034-0082 Aomori Prefecture, Towada City, Nishi-Nibancho 10-9