Japan has long been vulnerable to natural disasters such as flooding, typhoons, earthquakes and tsunamis. During the Meiji period (1868–1912), Japan transitioned from a feudal society to a constitutional monarchy. This transformation was accompanied by rapid modernisation that relied on engineering solutions for infrastructure projects such as dams, soil-erosion control structures, ports and waterways – fields in which the Dutch continue to have significant expertise.
Over several decades, the Japanese government invited multiple Dutch hydraulic engineers to help modernise its approach to water management by designing, developing and installing key projects. Among these experts were Anthonie Rouwenhorst Mulder, Cornelis van Doorn, George Arnold Escher, Isaac Lindo and Johannis de Rijke, each contributing to different aspects of Japan’s water systems. To highlight this significant yet largely overlooked shared history of Dutch contributions to Japanese water management, the Waterworks project sonically explores these developments.
Following on from Tone River by SUGAI KEN (Field 30, 2020) and Hachirogata Lake by Chihei Hatakeyama (Field 33, 2023), the upcoming release Kiso Three Rivers (Field 36, 2025) by Yui Onodera will complete the trilogy. Through architectural photography, sound mapping and electronic music, this project will revive the shared heritage of Dutch contributions to Japanese water management.
Team
Arjan Rietveld – founder Field Records
Luuk Kramer – photographer
Arvin Leeuwis – digital interaction
Thomas Hervé – design
Sebastien Robert – artist and researcher
Epigram cultural production house
About Field Records
Founded on principles of minimalism and modesty, and rooted in Dutch culture, Field Records has been releasing diverse electronic music on vinyl since 2008. The label works with artists and sounds from around the world, with a particular focus on Japan.
Events
Part of the showcase Rethinking Innovation (13 April–5 May) in the Event Space of the Dutch Pavilion.
A talk show will take place on 20 April, 15:00–17:00, also in the Event Space.