Prolific picture-book writer Jimmy Liao (幾米) will showcase his creative project – a bookstore featuring a fair amount of vintage publications – at Northern Alps Art Festival in Omachi City, Nagano prefecture, Japan, from Aug. 21 to Oct. 10, 2021.
Transformed from a shop that hired people with disabilities, the bookstore is now a permanent installation at the Japanese city displaying used books wrapped with covers illustrated by the Taiwanese artist, aiming to give reading an edge by making it a fun activity.
In addition to the innovative installation, people interested will be able to see carts carrying books with Liao's newly designed covers throughout the entire city of Omachi.
The award-winning artist started his career as a professional illustrator after publishing "Secrets in the Woods (森林裡的秘密)," and "A Fish with a Smile (微笑的魚)" in 1998, both of which were critically acclaimed and considered the best children's books of that year.
Known for his poetic language and whimsical images, Liao crafts each of his picture books to become a journey that can be shared by both children and adult readers. With evocative illustrations, the Yilan-born creator leads readers of all ages to think about life and love by exploring the imaginary world he created.
Liao's bookstore, together with three creations displayed at the first edition of the festival in 2017, are made permanent installations at the Japanese city.
Launched by Northern Alps Art Festival executive committee in 2017, the festival is a triennial art event highlighting site-specific creations that combine arts with history, culture, and landscapes of Omachi nestled at the foot of the Japan Alps.
Under the concept "Water, Trees, Earth, Sky," Northern Alps Art Festival 2021 will feature 41 groups and individuals from Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Africa, according to the festival's introduction.
Originally scheduled to take place from May 31 to July 19, 2020, the festival has been postponed to 2021 due to COVID-19 concerns.
'Northern Alps Art Festival'
Date: Aug. 21 – Oct. 10, 2021
Venue: Omachi city, Nagano prefecture, Japan
Site: https://shinano-omachi.jp/en/