#Japan #Tokyo #Happy Paint Project #Nippon Paint #Taito City

A Vibrant Farewell: Nippon Paint's 'Happy Paint Project' at Kanesokiguchi Elementary School

Nippon Paint, in collaboration with Nippon Paint Home Products and several other partners, recently held a heartwarming painting event at Kanesokiguchi Elementary School in Taito, Tokyo. This event, organized from March 3-5, 2025, was designed to leave lasting memories for students before the school underwent major renovations. As the school approaches its 120th anniversary, it prepares for a multi-year remodeling, prompting the need to create joyful experiences for the children one last time before they vacate the familiar walls.

A Canvas for Memories

The event allowed students to express their creativity freely on the school’s walls, utilizing a palette of 16 colors provided by Nippon Paint. Each grade participated over three days, with younger students painting their interpretations of themes like flowers and marine life. Their colorful murals soon transformed the classrooms and corridors into a vibrant art display, overflowing with youthful imagination and precious memories.

The sixth graders focused on a theme of graduation, pouring their thoughts and emotions into intricate designs. Time constraints did not hinder their focus; instead, they rallied together, ensuring that every artwork was a collective achievement. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie as students shared their spaces, worked together, and supported one another to complete their projects. They poured their hearts into the murals, embodying deep appreciation for their school.

Community Support and Contributions

The event saw generous support from various organizations. Otsuka Brush Manufacturing and Handy Crown provided essential materials and additional manpower. The students clearly relished the opportunity to mark their school in a way that combined artistry with sentimentality.

The Kanesokiguchi PTA emphasized the significance of the event: "We wanted to express gratitude to the school that has nurtured our children for over 40 years and foster creativity in the process. The students were thrilled by the chance to transform the walls they've been taught to keep clean into canvases for their imagination. Many of the sixth graders, in particular, were deeply engaged, reflecting on their imminent graduation as they painted. We are grateful for the community’s support in making this event possible."

From Otsuka Brush Manufacturing, we heard: "We are delighted to contribute to the Kanesokiguchi painting event. Watching the children collaborate and create their memories was heartwarming. The sixth graders, aware of their future, worked passionately, which inspires hope for what’s to come."

Handy Crown also expressed its excitement about the event, stating, "We feel honored to have contributed to this initiative. The joy on the children’s faces as they painted and added vibrancy to their school will surely be cherished in their memories. We aim to continue providing opportunities for creativity and self-expression."

Looking Ahead

The 'Happy Paint Project' initiated by Nippon Paint began in 2017, aiming to deliver happiness to society through paint. This initiative is part of a broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy showcasing community involvement through various painting events throughout Japan. With an impressive record of 171 events and nearly 10,900 participants by 2025, the project's mission resonates strongly with local communities, fostering connections and enhancing educational experiences.

As the children of Kanesokiguchi Elementary School reflect on their time in this beloved school, the murals they created will serve as vivid reminders of their memories, friendships, and the creativity they unleashed, embodying the true essence of the 'Happy Paint Project.'

For more about the project or to get involved, follow their journey on Instagram at @happypaintproject_nipponpaint.