What is End of Summer?
Established in 2016 by Matt Jay (1987 – 2022), End Of Summer is a cross-cultural art program based in Portland, Oregon. It is comprised of an annual summer residency for emerging artists and creators from Japan, to immerse themselves in the natural and creative landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. The gallery space will share how the residency program began, including personal stories from the participating artists that relay how the experience of working in the art communities of the Pacific Northwest changed their lives and their understanding of an artist’s practice.
End Of Summer (EOS) exists to build a dialogue between the U.S. and Japan through the Pacific Northwest and the expression of creative ideas. End Of Summer explores the art of Japan in an increasingly globalized society, reconsidering notions of East and West, center and periphery.
In its original format under the creative vision of Matt Jay, up to six Japanese artists were invited to participate in the program through an open call. The residency uses the setting of Portland, a city with deep cultural ties to Japan, a community-oriented ethos, and dynamic arts scene—a haven for creative exploration. Furthermore, the program emphasizes research-based experiences rather than a demand for artistic production.
Carrying the creed of the project manifested by its founder, End Of Summer looks forward to continuing its mission. While Japan Institute seeks to harness the traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge artistry already embedded in Portland Japanese Garden, both organizations are supported by the vibrant and creative energy of the Pacific Northwest.
