In the island town of
Makers Island Connection
Create, Connect, and Share Stories.
A creative residency program on an island town in the Seto Inland Sea of Japan.
Stay
We invite you to slow down to the island’s calm tempo and spend time in quiet dialogue with your own creative work.
Make
Immerse yourself in the creative process surrounded by the gentle rhythm of the waves and the abundant light of island life.
Share
You are encouraged to share your work and connect with the local community and beyond.
Makers Island Connection (mic) is a program that brings people together through the act of making.
We are based in the Kamijima Town of Ehime, a town made up of many small islands.
The program provides time and space for participants to develop their own projects while enjoying the slow-paced, authentic island life of the Seto Inland Sea of Japan.
Who is this program for?
◯ Creators and craftspeople
looking for time and space in a supportive environment to pursue their ideas and work.
◯ Educators, Instructors and Organizers
seeking a place for organizing a summer camp, creative retreat or for team building.
◯ Anyone wants to bring their ideas to life
This program is not limited to the artists or creators. We are happy to welcome anyone who seeks a dedicated space and time to work on both tangible and intangible ideas.
It is for those who wish to step away from the fast-paced urban life and devote themselves to creative work in a unique environment.
What does the program support?
Space
The program provides a place for:
・accommodation and workspace
・sharing creative work
Experience
Experience the unique lifestyle of Japan’s remote islands and connect with locals through activities and community life.
Creative Process
We will do our best to support projects that require extra assistance.
How does the program work?
This is a self-funded program offering an immersive stay of one to three months.
Welcome gathering
Upon arrival, participants are introduced to the area and have time to get to know each other.
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Shopping for groceries and materials
Please note that there isn’t an art supply store nearby. If you need any specific materials, please contact us in advance.
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Creative Freedom
The majority of the residency is self-directed time, during which participants focus on their creative practice while enjoying the island life. Participants are free to use their time as they wish. Bicycles are provided for exploring and getting around the islands.
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Sharing
In conclusion, participants have the opportunity to connect with the local community by presenting the work they created during their stay.
*The program is currently in a trial period. Please contact us for details.
The fees:
*currently in trial period
120,000JPY (month/person)
*All utilities included.
The length of stay:
1 ~ 3 months
The requirements:
A brief profile, portfolio and project proposal for your stay
Make It Together
We wish to grow our program together with our diverse participants through the act and process of making.
We started by building the space with our own hands and we welcome those with a passion for making and “connecting through creating”.
FAQ
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A long-term stay that supports creative practices alongside the experience of island life in Japan.
Participants are free to pursue their creative work in a supportive environment.
It combines elements of an artist-in-residence, workation and retreat.
This is a self-funded program. -
Private rooms for accommodation and workspace are provided. Exhibitions and presentations of work will be held at facilities on the island.
The accommodation is fully furnished and equipped with daily necessities. All utility costs are included.
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This program is primarily intended for individuals or a group of two. If you wish to participate with three or more people, please contact us in advance.
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Participants are responsible for bringing their own art supplies and tools required for their projects. For international participants who require specific items in Japan, we can assist with purchasing in advance.
There will also be an opportunity to visit the nearest home improvement store after arrival where limited art materials and tools are available.
Please note that not all items can be found locally, so please contact us in advance to confirm any essential materials. -
A kitchen and laundry machine is available in each accommodation.
Participants are responsible for cleaning their own rooms, doing their own laundry and preparing their own meals. Please note that we do not provide guesthouse style services such as regular linen or towel changes. Basic daily necessities including bedding, towels, soap and shampoo are provided. Spare items are also available so that participants are equipped for a comfortable stay.There are a few supermarkets and restaurants within short walking or cycling distance. However, dining options are limited and participants are generally expected to cook for themselves.
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Each participant will be provided with one bicycle (non-electric). For shopping and getting around the island, cycling is the recommended way!
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Our location:
Yuge Island of Ehime prefecture
This program takes place on a remote island in the Seto Inland Sea located between Ehime and Hiroshima prefectures. Nearby are the islands of the Shimanamo Kaido, a popular cycling route.This is a geographically unique area and the town is made up of 25 small islands, 7 of which are inhabited. Among them, 4 islands form a cluster of island communities connected by 3 bridges.
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April, May, October and November are the most comfortable months on the island. The rainy season is from June to early July, while August and September can be very hot. From December through to March the weather tends to be more cold and windy. The area is known for its seasonal fish (available all year round) and citrus fruits.
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Please go to our access page.