If You’re a Creator, Here’s Why the Next THU Event Is a Game-Changer
I find I’m so excited, I can barely sit still or hold a thought in my head. I think it’s the excitement only a free man can feel, a free man at the start of a long journey whose conclusion is uncertain.
The Journey Begins
You don’t need to be in jail to lose your freedom. That’s what crossed my mind as I sat at the airport, waiting to board my 6:45 a.m. flight to Cairns, the first leg of a journey that would ultimately take me to Japan. Around me, businessmen in their sharp suits prepared for their busy days in Sydney or Melbourne, full of meetings and handshakes.
A thought struck me as I reflected on my life: I’ve been there.
I used to don the tailored suit, board early-morning flights, and shake hands in stuffy boardrooms. Oddly enough, that version of me feels like a stranger now, someone I might run into at an airport.
Yet, that stranger — and every other version of myself — has contributed to my journey. Each has unknowingly penned a chapter in this unfolding narrative. And this story was about to gain another chapter — a transformative and revealing one.
A Sanctuary for Storytellers
As I touched down in Japan, my mom’s words from our phone call a few days prior reverberated in my head:
Your father says this trip to Japan will change your life.
To be honest, I was already steeped in that same sense of anticipation. Finally setting foot in Japan felt surreal — the hype was real. My main reason for being there was to attend THU Japan 2023 in the picturesque city of Kaga, tucked away in the stunning Ishikawa Prefecture.
What’s THU, you wonder? Picture this: a sanctuary for creators, artists, and dreamers from all corners of the globe. I was there for the inaugural edition of their Storytelling Retreat. And let me tell you, after the enlightening yet humbling experience at Oz Comic-Con
THU seemed like the perfect place to deepen my mastery of storytelling — a craft that’s been at the heart of my endeavors for the past year. Little did I know, the next three days would go beyond any of my expectations.
You could kick off your day with guided meditation, yoga, or even a tranquil stroll around the lake, not to forget the sublime experience of the in-house onsen (more on that gem later). All of this set the stage for diving into the Sensei’s vivid storytelling sessions.
With these profound words, Cláudia Cristovao launched the inaugural talk at THU. She whisked us away on a captivating journey through the Japanese art of Kintsugi. And from that magical moment on, each morning was an intimate session with a different Sensei. Whether it was Gato-san sharing his woodworking lineage or Kyle giving us a behind-the-scenes peek into the cinematic universes that colored our childhoods, one theme rang true: their personal touch.
The Power of Community
What struck me was how each of these master creators blended their unique experiences and worldviews into their work, forging a deep, authentic connection with their audience. It was like a lightning bolt of realization. It’s not just about the craft; it’s about the soul you pour into it.
I treasured all the talks and workshops, and a shoutout to the team responsible for the seamless Japanese-English translation. Each session was both transformative and inspirational. But perhaps, the moments I appreciate the most were those spent meeting one another. Initially, I was a bit nervous — sitting next to someone who was sketching in real-time what they were observing, or glancing at portfolios that left me awestruck by the projects they’d been a part of.
However, my nerves quickly settled when I realized the absence of egos. Everyone was there to learn, to be inspired, and to share their narratives, hardships, and dreams. Once I tapped into this communal energy, connections happened — both creative and spiritual. I felt welcomed into this community like never before, and I’m profoundly grateful for that.
The opportunity to share my story and some of my work with a Sensei like Kyle over lunch? Priceless. The feedback from countless talented artists and illustrators? It perfectly complemented the lessons I’d picked up just days before at Oz Comic Con.
Take, for example, a moment when resonating souls came together effortlessly during the last day’s lunch. As we discussed our respective journeys over traditional Japanese delicacies, we touched on topics that transcended our crafts — topics like legacy, purpose, and the deep-seated reasons why we create. It was a soulful exchange that exemplified the kind of spiritual connection I felt during my time at THU.
Surprises for the Senses
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we were treated to a culinary adventure that defied expectations. From traditional dishes to modern fusions, every plate was a canvas painted with flavors from local products and recipes.
When dinner’s last bites faded from our palates, the allure of the hotel bar was impossible to resist. A sublime space that balanced coziness with sophistication, it became the crucible where stories were exchanged, ideas were born, and friendships were cemented, all over the warm glow of sake and beer.
But the magic didn’t end there. We ventured out into the local celebration known as Koi-Koi Matsuri. Picture this: a bunch of us in blue yukatas, dancing through the streets of Kaga. This town, with its hot springs and roughly 65,000 inhabitants, was hosting a festival where “Koi” meant both ‘love’ and an invitation to ‘come join!’ Our group, the “Samurai Boys,” led by local legend Sota-San, had members from all over. The African brothers shook things up with their dance moves, and Franky and I? We brought a bit of Colombian taste to the mix.
The dance? At first, I watched. But soon, I was right in the middle, moving and clapping in sync with everyone else. The feast of local flavors and crafts gave a sense of community that transformed the night into a cherished memory.
Fueki Ryukou
On the last day, before our farewell dinner, I decided to visit the onsen. Once I went inside, I immediately regretted not going every day — it was fantastic! I felt stripped bare, not just physically, but also in mind and spirit. A profound sense of belonging and connection embraced me. This experience introduced me to so many amazing souls, each with their tale, their spark. I shared, listened, felt inspired, and unearthed invaluable insights about life, friendship, spirituality, and passion for their art.
If I were to distil this entire experience into two words, I’d lean on a term I picked up from one of the talks: Fueki Ryukou, which captures the essence of respecting the past while gazing into the future. I’m humbled and grateful for my path, and I’m sure all these lessons will be vital in the path forward.
So, during the farewell party, I took the opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to André — and by extension, to everyone who played a role in making THU Japan come alive. Recalling my dad’s prescient words, I can now say with absolute certainty: Dad, you were right. This experience has truly changed my life.
P.S. Stay tuned for upcoming posts where I’ll delve into my favorite talks and workshops from THU, and highlights from my three-day Tokyo adventure! For an even closer look at this transformative experience, check out our short Vblog here:
