Yasuyo Tanaka: Summer News

Elections and Democracy

The United States of America celebrated its 240th year of independence on July 4th, 2016. To protect NYC's celebrations, New York City's Police Department deployed its largest force ever, including its counter-terrorism team and helicopters flying in formation.

This year has seen: lots of terrorism, the United Kingdom’s announcement of its withdrawal from the European Union, and America's loss of trust in most of its political servants, electoral system, political parties, and candidates.

Right now, Japan's House of Councillors is involved in a vote on a constitutional amendment. I went to vote at the Japanese consulate which surprisingly was open on the weekend. I luckily heard how people made it possible to do overseas voting for Japanese elections right here in New York City. I deeply appreciate their effort, and felt that this was democracy in action.

All of this has given us the opportunity to think anew about elections and democracy. These are signs that there's a turning point in the world. While disturbing and anxiety causing world affairs are unfolding, I'm searching for what I can do with individuals to lead to a peaceful future.

Prophecies: Under this sky

My proposal " Under this sky" for the open call “Prophecies” was selected by the art department director Lauren Reid at Node Center which is an art organization focused on contemporary art research and education.
My proposal is published on Node Center's website

Immigrant Artist Mentoring Program: Social Practice

I've been selected to be part of the 2016 New York Foundation For The Arts' Immigrant Artist Mentoring Program: Social Practice. It will be a valuable endeavor to see what can be done through art with immigrant artists and experts from different fields.

I've been thinking about a collaborative project with artists from diverse fields and disciplines, such as ecologists, scientists, etc, to create educational art exhibitions and events that combine nuclear issues and immigration issues. I hope the Node Center and NYFA's opportunities will be a trigger that will help me realize my projects.

Workshop