Kotohogi: The Embodiment of Time

CRS (Center for Remembering & Sharing) is continuing its support for the KOTOHOGI arts and healing project as it moves to Düsseldorf, Germany for The Embodiment of Time​, A Performative Evening and artist talk in collaboration with Thomas Klein (musician, Düsseldorf) on March 9 presented by TAIFUN Project, International art platform for cultural initiative. This presentation of Kotohogi: The Embodiment of Time is made possible, in part, by a travel grant from the Center.

LOCATION:
Flurstraße 11, 40235 Düsseldorf, Germany

In Japanese philosophy, water embodies both “linear time” (flow, decay) and “cyclical time” (purification, renewal). Aging and mortality are not resisted but accepted as part of a cosmic rhythm. This worldview fosters a serene acceptance of life’s impermanence, shaping Japan’s unique perspective on existence, time, and the beauty of transience.

Since PLUS – a project for an aging world (2021-2024), as a further development on the theme of “aging” and a further exchange of cultural comparisons with Germany and Japan on this topic, TAIFUN Project is pleased to invite Yuko Kaseki (Butoh dancer, Berlin-Japan), Kanako Sehara (Logogram & Calligraphy artist, Zen monk, Osaka), and Miho Tsujii (Performance artist, trained in Noh dance&vocals, Osaka) of performance team Kotohogi to come to Düsseldorf in March 2025. With the warm support by Kabawil e. V., artists from Japan and Germany will collaborate again, to create a special performative evening in the early spring of this year. By integrating the modalities of Butoh dance, Noh performance, sound/vocalisation, visual art and poetic storytelling, this event “The Embodiment of Time”  is to present a special interpretation of Japanese philosophy on aging, life and the concept of time.

“Kotohogi” are words in Japan that have the functions of spell, blessing, and celebration. Words (koto) can invoke the action of “shu” (curse/prayer/magic) through sounds and letters. The word and sound purify the body through the body. This is the origin of Kotohogi, which is to celebrate (hogu) with words.

“KOTOHOGI” is a series of performances by three artists from different genres, based on Butoh, calligraphy, Noh, singing and storytelling, that is developed through engagements with site and people in local communities.