Who is Taka Takiguchi?
I am a performer, poet, and creative producer of Japanese heritage based in Naarm (Melbourne). Before that, I worked as a social worker for around 10 years. That’s why my art-making process often involves challenging social norms and structures in Australia from intersectional perspectives through movements, poetry, and visual art. I am also into comedy, surrealism, and cynicism, blending real-life elements into my work.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I would be a monk – I like meditation, and like being in a contemplative state (it’s definitely a trait of that star sign. I like routines, repetitive ritualistic practices, and spiritually free spaces to appreciate serene time, nature, food and communal connections as a way of living.
Who inspires you and why?
If I am allowed to choose two, the first one is Ryokan . He was a monk and a great poet. Although he was a monk, he didn’t or chose not to live in temples – he was a cool rule breaker and also loved solitude. He was free, very giving, and super intelligent! The second one is Shuntaro Tanikawa. He is a prominent contemporary Japanese poet. His poems capture twisted and surreal reality in a spatial way. Both of them make me realize the importance of observing what we have before us now, today, every day.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would love to teach and share what I have with children. I also want to learn from children.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I don’t have a specific place, but I would be happy wherever it is constantly above 20°C.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Weirdly, I love taking my family and friends to the tram restaurant! Maybe because I also feel like I am on holiday with them! You feel a very different sense of place being in a tram if you eat and drink inside of a tram. Also, Cathedral Range State Park for walking and camping – it has beautiful walking tracks and outlooks.
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading the Complete Poetry Collection by Chuya Nakahara. He was a poet greatly influenced by Dadaism but died at the age of 30. Although his theme is mainly melancholia, his choice of words is phonetically beautiful, and I really enjoy reading out one or two poems before going to sleep.
What are you currently listening to?
I’m listening to lots of Japanese pop music for work as a performer/poet. I like Ado, YOASOBI, King Gnu, and Sekai no Owari. I’m really interested in how colloquial Japanese language continues to change to express emotions through music.
Happiness is?
Already there, and will fade away when you think about it
What does the future hold for you?
It will be more fun and exciting than ever as I get older, mature and wiser (I hope!).
Taka can be seen in the world premiere of Nicola Gunn’s Apologia – which is currently playing in the Beckett Theatre – Malthouse Theatre until 18 August 2024. For more information, visit: www.malthousetheatre.com.au for details.
Image: Taka Takiguchi (supplied)