Ma Umi

I was lucky enough to be part of Ma Umi residencies in Ishigaki, during February and March of 2026, for a total of four weeks. The living studio is beautifully decorated, and well kept, and the land on its own is incredibly inspiring and full of resonance. I was introduced to key places for my research around underwater cables and oceanic timing, as well as people from the island. I was lead to museums and cultural centers, shown works tailored to my research. Both Val and Fu were incredible helpful and fun, and really value the specificity of the island, going to local shops and restaurants, which convey how ethically embedded they are with the place. This allows for the guests to be able to engage in a very careful and thoughtful manner with the people and histories of Ishigaki and neighboring islands, such as Taketomi island. I would recommend driving and renting a car to go around the island, since public transportation is a bit tricky as in most islands. My stay has prompted me to go back to continue the research, and Ma Umi residencies is a very welcoming space, silent when needed and always full of life.