[After the '96 Yonago Sculpture Symposium]
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I learned about this symposium three years ago when I attended the "Iwate International Symposium" and met Mr. Ida. As a sculptor and architect, his work was very interesting because it reminded me of the ancient cities I had seen in South America and Africa before. After that, while looking at the catalog of Yonago's symposium that I received from him, I also wanted to participate.

Fortunately, I was invited to this year's symposium, and I was able to meet Mr. Ida again, and made a visit to the strange land "Tottori Prefecture", which was only mentioned in my guidebook. Even better, I realized my desire to use locally produced basalt, which Isamu Guchi used effectively.

It was a lot of fun during the production period in Yonago. The production venue is in a wonderful location, and thanks to the breeze from Nakaumi, I was able to work under the scorching sun. I didn't expect to continue working every day without resting so much, but other sculptors seemed to enjoy it too. It is often a social time from the evening, and Mr. Funakoshi, Mr. Matsumoto, and Mr. Adachi tried to have a good time, and I was able to fully enjoy these 6 weeks with everyone.

I myself was pondering the idea of stones and works. I also received advice from other sculptors, including Mr. Ida and Mr. Motoike, regarding the undecided details. Many people "participated" in my work. This is what the symposium should be. Sculptors often work alone, but it was also meaningful to receive comments from other sculptors and visitors who visited the production venue one after another. This is the most wonderful gift I received in Yonago. If I could "dedicate" my feelings to Yonago through my work "offering", I wouldn't be more than happy.

At the party, I felt a strong connection with Yonago. I am especially grateful to Mr. Tomomatsu for his friendship. I would like to come back to Yonago someday.