This year marks a significant milestone for Sam Allen, a New Zealand mural artist from Tauranga who has been awarded an arts creator residency in Namegawa Town, Japan, leaving behind a legacy of wonderful projects and his inspirational work mentoring youth.
Sam Allen has been a resident artist at The Incubator Creative Hub in Tauranga since he was 19 years old having been mentored by the then Incubator international residency artist Pablo Riaz from Bolivia. Since then, he has been an integral part of the Creative Hub and as a self-taught artist he has steadfastly honed his craft and developed a deep connection with the local community.
Now, at 25, Sam is set to embark on another exciting creative adventure as part of the Creative Power Garage 101- PONDALIZE Art Project in Japan. Since its establishment in 2020, the PONDALIZE Art Project has been a beacon of cultural exchange, bringing together artists, researchers, and local residents through co-living experiences, artwork creation, and exhibitions. The project, founded by a group of 10 artists and researchers, has grown into a vibrant platform for exploring the intersections of art, nature, and heritage.
Miyuki Kobayashi, Art Director of PONDALIZE Art Project says, “We believe that Sam’s artwork will not only contribute to the revitalisation of our community but also encourage the creation of new relationships and inspire future generations’ cultural expressions. His work will delve into the spirit cherished by our ancestors and carry it forward into future activities.”
This year in May, as part of PONDALIZE’s theme of “Creative Health,” Sam will design a stunning mural inspired by “POND Culture,” a tribute to the traditional rice cultivation techniques sustained by pond water in Namegawa Town. The mural will serve to highlight the environmental and cultural significance of this heritage but also explores the connections between physical and mental well-being, creativity, and nature.
“Sam’s journey with us has been nothing short of extraordinary and the perfect example of how an early mentorship can spark motivation and give the tools for artists to self-develop and grow,” said Incubator Creative Hub Director Simone Anderson. “While we are sad to see him go, we are excited to see how his next adventure unfolds. His legacy will continue to inspire many young people, and we look forward to seeing how he injects his spirit in the PONDALIZE project.”
