Takayuki Isoyama
the east and Tsugaru Strait on the north, is unique for its "ax" shape.
The southernmost part of the "ax-handle" is so narrow that it is
difficult for animals to come and go, and its ecosystem is the same as
that of an island. MutsuCity,Wakinosawa where I live, is located along
the base of the"axhead." Its has a population of about 2500 .
In the winter, many cod are caught, so the village is sometimes called
"Cod Village." During the war, the viIlage donated two fighter planes to
the government, a fact of which the villagers are very proud.
A variety of wild animals live on the peninsula. Among them, the Japanese
monkey has gained fame in Japan and around the world for being found in the
northernmost location. Also, the Japanese serow can be closely observed here.
Truly, the area is in itself a national treasure chest.
My Iife-long theme "In the Forest", evoIved in this setting.
Throughout the four seasons, as I lived among the beech, white cedar.
and many other trees of the forest, my lifestyle as a human disappeared and
became that of the nature surrounding me.
When I was hungry I ate, and when I was full and became sleepy, I slept.
When it got cold, we huddled together and shared our warmth. On hot days,
I would only take naps in the shade of the trees. From dawn to dusk, even though
every day was a repetition of the day before, I wasn't bored.
And in this forest, the momentary glimpse of the rays of the sun shining
through the Ieaves of the trees onto the figures of the animals deeply
moved me.
I can't help but think of the awesome power of nature.
morinonakade@wakinosawa.com
TAKAYUKI.ISOYAMA 2005