Ikishima Forgotten

I have always had a fascination and appreciation for historical Japanese culture, so when I played SuckerPunch studios’ “Ghost of Tsushima” I was inspired to create my concept piece ‘Numachi Village - Ikishima forgotten”, based in the Edo period between the 1720s and 1820s on Ikishima Island.

The emphasis in Edo architecture being stewardships of nature rather than dominion over it, plays a significant role in the story I wanted to tell here. The scene takes place in a marshy/wetland, with overgrown foliage working to reclaim the village. The walkway leads the eye to the central structure, one of significant importance. Inside the structure rests a Samurai’s armor, adorned with recently lit candles. A Katana sits atop a stand nearby, and a Samurai mask is displayed alongside it. The tea cups and pot have long-since been used and nature has found its way back through cracks in the foundation. While the village appears abandoned, the candles still flicker, revealing that not all have forgotten.

There is presence here, but of whom we cannot be certain.

concept art

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