AiRK - off to Japan!

It’s finally happening — in less than a week I will be heading to Kobe, Japan for my upcoming artist residency with AiRK (Artist in Residence Kobe), and preparations are well underway. I couldn’t be more excited to begin this new chapter!

This will be my very first artist residency, made possible also thanks to the support of Arts Council Malta, whose backing has helped bring this project to life. Opportunities like these are incredibly meaningful for artists, allowing us to grow, explore new perspectives, and connect with creative communities beyond our own borders.

Japan has long been a source of inspiration for my work, particularly through anime and manga, which have deeply influenced the visual language and energy present in many of my artworks. Being able to spend time in the country where this culture was born feels both surreal and incredibly motivating.

During my time in Kobe, I’m especially looking forward to immersing myself in the local culture, meeting people from the community, and sharing my artistic process. Kobe already seems like a beautiful and welcoming city, and I’m grateful to AiRK for this wonderful opportunity.

The first week will be dedicated to exploration — visiting anime-inspired locations, galleries, and creative spaces, while observing and learning more about the artistic environment in Japan. I’m curious to understand what resonates within this context, what works, what doesn’t, and how different perspectives can influence my own practice.

After this period of exploration, I will begin developing new artworks during the residency, allowing the experience itself to shape the creative process.

I’m truly looking forward to this journey and to sharing moments from it along the way.

Stay tuned!