iCLA graduate of 2020, artist Gaku Okata has completed a large-scale public mural at a Yamanashi City water purification plant. The art project, which aims to raise public awareness about water treatment and the importance of clean water, has been featured by national broadcaster NHK at both its start and its completion.
The large mural, which is approximately 30 meters in length and 3 meters tall at its highest point, is located at Yamanashi City’s Somaguchi Water Purification Plant. The mural serves to educate and engage the public with the vital work of the facility, which supplies clean, safe tap water to residents in Koshu City, Fuefuki City, and Yamanashi City, using water sourced from the Kotogawa Dam and Kotogawa River.
Okata’s mural celebrates the region’s natural beauty and the rich ecosystems that contribute to local water sources. Featured imagery includes mountains with cherry blossoms and fresh spring foliage, local landmarks such as the community shrine, and river life inspired by trout which are kept at the facility itself.
Photos documenting the mural’s creation are available on the Somaguchi Water Purification Plant’s website (Japanese). The artwork is open to the public and can be viewed during visiting hours.
Since graduating, Gaku Okata has continued to develop his artistic career, holding solo and group exhibitions, and engaging in community projects. His first solo exhibition, EXHALE, was held in 2020, shortly before graduation and the completion of his internship with Gallery AIRY (Artist in Residence Yamanashi). He has held exhibitions across Yamanashi, Tokyo, and Gunma, and is currently based overseas.
For more information on the mural and NHK’s feature coverage, visit: [NHK News (Japanese)].
Gaku Okata’s Website, Instagram.
