Azumino | NICE-24S-0908B | 2024-09-08 - 2024-09-15 | DISA,ART | Age: 18 - 99

This project is actively working for SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), newly organized together with NPO WHITE CANVAS, a Non Profit Organization to empower mentally challenged people through the power of art. It was established by Kyoko who was a very active members of NICE with a lot of workcamp experiences in Togo, etc. and the company who had been working with her. Then more members joined when the workshop was about to open. They organize the workshop TIME WARP that is a workplace for adults with special needs for weavery, pottery, small garden and embroidery work. They all love art and craft, having big interests on humans. They don t stick in specific philosophies, but anthroposophy is one of their guides. They work and study together with a certified anthroposophical doctor, nurse, curative pedagogistst and Extra Lesson practitioners. *Outcome of this workcamp: In 2023 Jul., we had a pilot weekend workcamp with 13 vols. from Japan and Vietnam that was very successful to convince the values and power of the workcamp through the physical work (clearing the bushes, cleaning the rooms) and active exchange!

Work: We will 1) Support for the art event conducted by mentally challenged adults together with community members and artists (Event is scheduled to be held in various locations to produce large paintings in a field using soil as paint under the guidance of a picture book artist.), 2) Maintain and prepare the art event venues and ateliers, including fields and warehouses and 3) Support the daytime activities, including making things in the atelier (e.g., dyeing plants and trees, setting up weaving machines, etc.).

Accomodation and food: Volunteers will sleep in the tatami (Japanese traditional carpet) rooms of a separate house near the office of White Canvas. Meals will be cooked by volunteers by turns. Sleeping bag is necessary. There is a shower room, a kitchen and wifi.

Location: AzuminocityNagano

Location and Leisure: The project is located in Azumino-city, Nagano pref.; foothills of the Northern Alps of Japan. 189 km north west from Tokyo, 150km north east from Nagoya. It is famous for beautiful nature as well as the fresh, tasty fruits especially, apples! There are no shops nearby. Exchange parties, hot spring, excursion on a free day, etc.

Train/Bus station: The nearest international airport is Tokyo (NRT or HND). From Tokyo to the meeting point near the project, it takes around 4 hours by ttain or bus. Volunteers need to arrive at the airport in Tokyo by the end of Sep. 07 and can leave there from the beginning of Sep. 16.

Requirements: Volunteers need to have respect and interest in others and other cultures. Enjoyment of living in a natural setting where one comes into contact with insects and soil. Willingness and flexibility to engage in a variety of activities. Motivation letter is needed! 9,000 JPY (55 EUR by the rate on 2023 Nov. 18th) of "NICE Volunteers" fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation/ coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free.

Language: eng

Extra Fee: 9000 JPY

Discussion on activities in the volunteer's home country and local art brut/ outsider art