The harshness of nature and the gentleness of the hot springs, the sub-zero silence and the warmth of the steam. We believe that the characteristics of Sounkyo, where one can go back and forth between the outside world of untouched primeval nature and the recuperation of a hot spring retreat, provide a strong stimulus to the sensibilities of artists. Against this backdrop, 'Artist in “Ice” Residence 2026 -Winter Seclusion at a Therapeutic Hot Spring Inn-' was born as a winter art project where the natural environment of Sounkyo and the philosophy of Hotel Kumoi intersect.

The four participating artists will stay at the hotel for about two weeks from January 23 to February 6 to engage in creative activities. Their works will be exhibited inside the hotel during the 'Sounkyo Onsen Ice Fall Festival,' held in the same area from January 24 to March 8, and will also be introduced on the hotel's official website. This is positioned not merely as a project to stay at a hotel and create works, but as an attempt to challenge creation while feeling the contrast between the harsh sub-zero environment and the hot spring retreat, accompanied by changes in physical sensations and thoughts. As a result, many works were created that incorporated perspectives gained only by contemplating the nature and history of this land, as well as insights born from communication among the artists.

Based on this background, and under the theme 'Hot Spring Retreat Below Freezing, Each Gaze,' we consulted with the artists and exhibited their respective works throughout the hotel.


・Kiichi Kawamura / Photographer: “Aria in Cloud”
・Sakura Oba / Painter: “From the 5th Station of Mt. Kurodake”
・Miyu Imajuku / Poet・Performance Artist: “(Re)cover”
・Shibi / Painter: “Playing in the Sounkyo River”