~News from Izumi glass studio~

August Store Opening and Workshop - Sokosoko Marche

The Sokosoko Marche is held on the third Sunday of every month from 8:00 to 15:00 at Senami Onsen, Murakami City, Niigata.  Since March 2022, 8 artisans have gathered at a local storefront that opens on the day of the event.

The sand and scenery of Murakami are different from Echizenhama Beach and Kakudahama Beach, where I live now, but I see the merits of both locations.  Being surrounded by a rich natural environment with the wind blowing heals me both mentally and physically.  Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture is where I grew up until I graduated from junior high school, and I often went to Senami Onsen beach and Iwafune beach in the summer.  So much nostalgia tied to the region and so many memories.  Talking about my past experiences there always helps me relax, and I’m always happy to return, especially to blend some of my new work in glass art in my hometown with other artisans. 

Location:

Until March 2023, the Sokosoko Marche will be held at the former Kogeinosato Museum (旧香藝の郷美術館), but it will be closed in January and February 2023.  "Soko" means market in Swahili.  Izumi glass studio appeared for the first time in May 2022 after I received an invitation from a senior colleague who started a marche (market) since she started living in the vicinity of the Senami Onsen.

I choose to display works that can be used naturally in everyday life rather, essentially function over form.  My focus being on glass art items such as: vases, chopstick rests, paper weights, plates, etc. exhibiting a salient seasonal theme.

During this Sokosko Marche on August 21st, in addition to displaying my completed pieces of functional glass art, I am planning to hold a workshop.  Anyone who chooses to join the workshop can craft glass accessories such as chopstick rests, pendants, paper weights, and small plates.  Priority will be given to those with reservations, but it is okay to join the day of if there are spaces available, but I recommend reaching and securing your spot!

My goal for all those who visit Marche is to uncover new things that interest them from a variety of shops, especially fields or art and sources of inspiration you’ve yet to explore.  From that new experience I hope you bring ‘something’ back with you, knowledge or experience and potentially some new treasures to enjoy.   We’re striving as we moving forward at the Sokosoko Marche to make changes so that all participants, regardless of age or gender, will enjoy a comfortable space for personal discovery.

By all means, stop by Marche and enjoy the nearby hot springs, the sea, and delicious seafood.