#Japan #Tokyo #HOKKOKU UNIVERSE #KUNCA #North Japan

A New Creative Community Launches in Tokyo: HOKKOKU UNIVERSE™️

The HOKKOKU UNIVERSE™️, a community crafted to connect creators from the Hokuriku region with artists around Japan, is set to make its debut with a pop-up exhibition from April 29 to May 3, 2026, at GALLERY PARADISO in Yoyogi Uehara, Tokyo. This initiative is supported by KUNCA Co., Ltd., a company dedicated to fostering creativity and culture.

The Concept: "There’s No Place Like Hokuriku"

The phrase “There’s no place like Hokuriku”—inspired by the famous line from The Wizard of Oz—embodies the spirit of this new community. Originally initiated by Yuri Minagawa, who moved to Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, and connected with local artists possessing sparkling creativity, this community aims to bring the unique personality and charm of Hokuriku to a broader audience.

The exhibition will showcase various pieces born in this enchanting region, enriched by its natural beauty, unique sense of time, and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can expect to experience products and workshops that reflect the joyful moments found in everyday life, each highlighting the region's craftsmanship and creativity.

Featured Artists and Their Works

The exhibition will feature three distinctive artists, each contributing their unique perspectives rooted in the traditional culture and landscapes of Hokuriku yet harmonizing with contemporary lifestyles:

• - MYDEAR / Yuri Minagawa (@dr.lily_uri): Yuri Minagawa, a dyeing artist, will present her brand focusing on upcycled fabrics and scraps. Her creations include bags and cushions adorned with exclusive colors and patterns derived from her creative processes, encapsulating the spirit of sustainability.

• - MIZUKI KUTANI (@mizuki_kutani): This artist creatively merges traditional Kutani porcelain—a craft known for its stunning colors—with iconic motifs from old-school tattoos. Expect whimsical items like small plates and accessory stands that reflect a playful aesthetic.

• - piñata (@ppinataa): Known for her delightful beaded embroidery jewelry, piñata specializes in creating one-of-a-kind pieces using glass beads and sequins. Her works aim to serve as little rewards for oneself, making a perfect gift or a personal treat.

Interactive Experience: Workshops and Collaborative Creations

In addition to the exhibits, the event will host exclusive collaborative items from the participating artists, capturing the essence of their synergy. Attendees can join in a special workshop hosted by piñata, where participants can craft their own OMAMORI bracelets using natural stones and beads. This hands-on experience promises to connect visitors with the creative processes behind these unique artworks.

Opening Party

Kick off the event with an opening party on April 29 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, where attendees can mingle and raise a glass to Hokuriku's culinary delights in a relaxed atmosphere.

Exhibition Details

• - Event Name: HOKKOKU UNIVERSE™️ Pop-Up Exhibition “There’s No Place Like Hokuriku”
• - Dates: April 29 (Wednesday, Public Holiday) to May 3 (Sunday), 2026
• - Venue: GALLERY PARADISO

Address: 1-23-9 Uehara, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (1-minute walk from Yoyogi Uehara Station)

• - Opening Hours:

April 29 (Wednesday): 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM (Opening party starts at 6 PM)
April 30 (Thursday) to May 2 (Saturday): 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM
May 3 (Sunday): 11:30 AM - 6:00 PM

• - Admission: Free
• - Official Instagram: @hokkoku_universe
• - Planning and Operations by: KUNCA Co., Ltd.

For Inquiries

For further information regarding the event, please contact KUNCA Co., Ltd. via their website studiokunca.com or email [email protected]. Media inquiries for images or interviews with the artists are welcome, and we encourage those interested in coverage to reach out.