Zenbird Editorial TeamART 4 HOMETOWN is a project that connects regional artists with donors through the Furusato Choice hometown tax platform. This is a collaboration initiated by Culture Convenience Club (CCC), and it aims to transform the nature of hometown tax donations from simple consumption to cultural investment, offering exclusive artworks as return gifts.
The current hometown tax system in Japan primarily focuses on food and daily necessities. While these products support local industries, the ART 4 HOMETOWN project introduces a new dimension centred on culture and art. it allows donors to support the history, values, and creative future of specific regions.
CCC Art Lab curated the first phase of the project, with nine artists providing a total of 25 works. These artists have deep connections to their respective regions, including Mashiko Town in Tochigi Prefecture and Seto City in Aichi Prefecture. CCC Art Lab ensures that the relationship between the artist and the local community is respected and clearly communicated to the donor.
For the participating artists, the project provides a platform to engage with society outside traditional gallery spaces. Municipalities also benefit from more promotional tools, allowing them to share the cultural context and values of their regions beyond the standard agricultural or industrial products. This ongoing collaboration will help preserve regional culture, and passing on to the next generation.
[Reference] Culture Convenience Club Press Release (Japanese)
