Naoshima Island

Spent the day on Naoshima, an “art island” beautifully set in the Inland Sea. Visited the Chichu Art Museum, which is housed in a series of underground galleries, and several “art houses”—former homes that have been converted into works of art.

Where Bicycles Rule

Onomichi U2, a repurposed 1943 warehouse where bicycles rule. The 28-room Hotel Cycle, plus bar and restaurant, provide us with a comfortable base to cycle part of the Shimanami Kaido across the Seto Inland Sea tomorrow.

Kumamoto Station

When traveling in Japan, I look for buildings by architect Tadao Ando. Today, while staying in a hotel at Kumamoto Station, I noticed some familiar simple-yet-elegant architectural elements. Eventually, I discovered Ando had designed the station. It was time for a closer look!

Cycling, Salad, Art

On my random cycle ride, found myself at the Walker. Over a kale and pistachio salad, chose two galleries to explore. Here, fabric kinetic sculptures flapped, kept aloft by fans. Another piece by the artist, Paul Chan, expressed strong opinions of the former president.

Categorized as Arts

Family Drama

Tonight we’re about to watch Tokyo Story (1953), a classic of Japanese cinema.

Categorized as Arts

Mad Max: Nordeast

While cycling in Nordeast Minneapolis, I was stopped in my tracks by a moving art installation that evoked the Mad Max movies. Nordeast Minneapolis is home to hundreds of artists.

Finished or in Process?

Today’s cycle ride took me through the workspace of Nordeast Minneapolis sculptor Zoran Mojsilov. This piece looks finished, but maybe I’ll be surprised the next time I pass by.

Born with Teeth

This weekend we’ve been catching up with our season tickets. This evening: Born with Teeth at the Guthrie, Shakespeare and Marlowe face off in a pub back room.

Categorized as Arts

Sounds of the Evening

Emerged from Orchestra Hall to the sound of a snowblower, a stark contrast to the Minnesota Orchestra, the Minnesota Chorale, and vocal soloists. The snow had started during the concert.

Categorized as Arts