I’ve been invited to a once-in-a-lifetime art residency in Nishiawakura, Japan through the Shelburne Craft School in Vermont – and I need your help getting there.

Nishiawakura is a traditional mountain village in the Okayama prefecture, known for its deep commitment to sustainability, traditional crafts, architecture, forest management, and cultural exchange. The residency is part of a grant project between Nishiawakura and the Shelburne Craft School, designed to build lasting connections between villages in Japan and the U.S.

For 2 weeks in November, I’ll be working alongside a Japanese fiber artist, learning traditional techniques, and exploring how art, nature, and community are woven together. I’ll also be staying with a host family, taking part in group workshops, a community forum, and field trips, all culminating in a final exhibition celebrating our exchange.

On a more vulnerable note, I’m kind of terrified. I have not traveled in years, and recently, I have developed a certain anxiety around traveling. I have felt stuck in Vermont, in my craft, in my career. This might be what I’ve been searching for. I’ve been drawn to Japan since studying anthropology in my undergraduate studies, and even more so after traveling to Southeast Asia 10 years ago. The chance to immerse myself in a small, traditional community and learn directly from the Japanese culture is a dream I’ve carried for more than half of my life.

While I’ve started to pay for the residency on a payment plan, I still need help covering the remaining costs. I applied for 3 artist grants that could’ve supported my trip and was unfortunately denied, so I’m turning to you to help make this dream possible.

Here’s what I’m fundraising for:

* Residency balance: $2,900

* Roundtrip airfare: ~ $1,200

* Traveler’s insurance: $200

* Bullet train tickets: ~ $200

* Care for my dog, Luck: $500

Totaling: $5000

For every $100 donation, I will make (and mail!) you a weaving inspired by my trip. Your support, whether big or small, will directly help me cover these expenses so I can fully participate in this rare opportunity to grow as an artist, connect across cultures, and bring new skills, stories, and inspiration back home to Vermont.

I’ve also added new baskets to my online shop Wild Light Design. Every purchase helps me get closer to Japan! Thank you for believing in my work and helping me take this next big step. I can’t wait to share what I learn with all of you.

With immense gratitude,

Karen ◡̈

/ this wild light

[Portrait photo taken by Rachel Grimes in the Modern Macramé studio of Emily Katz in Portland, Oregon in 2017]