#Japanese art #Hachioji Arts #Re arts garden

Unveiling the Hachioji Arts Festival's Artistic Riches

The Hachioji Arts Festival, which commenced in 2023, serves as a vibrant platform celebrating the region's artistic heritage. It is a rich tapestry of art, music, theater, and workshops located in diverse venues such as old factory sites, traditional houses, parks, and outdoor facilities. This festival encourages participants to immerse themselves in the local scenery as if they are travelers in their own journey through time.

Reviving Collective Memories

At the heart of this initiative is the Re arts garden, a specialized second-hand art materials store located in Nerima. This unique establishment focuses on finding new homes for unwanted art supplies and artworks that often hold sentimental value, such as inherited items from deceased relatives. Many of these pieces carry the legacy of artists from before and after the war, forming crucial links to modern Japanese art history. The festival aims to shine a light on these forgotten treasures and the stories they tell, ensuring that the messages they convey are not lost to time.

Re arts garden is led by Sae Arisawa, born in 1997 in Kanagawa, who graduated from Tama Art University in 2019. As Japan's first second-hand art supply store, it strives to reduce waste by accepting various items, including those rejected by typical thrift shops. By connecting these materials to those who desire them, Re arts garden fosters a circular economy that encourages art creation, ensuring that resources do not go to waste.

Festival Highlights: November 8 to December 7

During the festival, visitors can experience an array of programs, including art exhibitions, musical performances, and engaging talks. The highlighted painting exhibition allows attendees to apply for the artworks they wish to take home, highlighting the festival's theme of sustainability and community involvement. All submissions are collected via forms available at the venue, and if multiple entries for the same piece occur, a lottery will determine the recipient.

• - Exhibition Dates: November 8 – December 7 (Closed on Wednesdays)
• - Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM
• - Venue: Former textile factory site, 2-21-5 Nakano Kamimachi, Hachioji City

Embracing a Community Spirit

The festival embodies the concept of community engagement through its unique collaborative programs, such as the