#Japan #Yachiyo #Maruhan #DRAGON76 #Yachiyo Art

A New Chapter in Community Development Through Art

In a bold move to rejuvenate local communities, Maruhan East Japan, headquartered in Tokyo and Kyoto, has unveiled an ambitious art initiative known as the Yachiyo Art Project. Taking place at the complex facility ism Midorigaoka in Yachiyo City, Chiba Prefecture, this large-scale art project is designed to foster community engagement and celebrate creativity.

Unveiling the Power of Art

The project has appointed DRAGON76, a renowned expert in wall art based in New York, as its ambassador. His involvement includes visiting local schools where he conducts live painting sessions and engaging talks. As part of the initiative, coinciding with Toilet Day on November 10, the facility’s restroom spaces have been transformed into vibrant art installations, part of an effort to blend everyday spaces with art.

Through various workshops led by multiple artists, the project aims to connect residents with creative expression, highlighting the genuine potential that art holds to enrich public environments. According to Akihiro Mashino, head of the General Administrative Department at Maruhan East Japan, “We focus on what we can offer to society and have identified the need to enhance the sense of happiness in Japanese society.”

An Artistic Revolution in Daily Spaces

Launched in October, with the mission to create spaces that promote joy and interaction, the project is particularly noted for its innovative approach in utilizing restrooms as canvases for art. Eleven esteemed artists, including actors and visual artists, have contributed works for twelve restroom spaces, enriching public facilities with unexpected creativity. “Public locations should evoke comfort, surprise, and enjoyment,” says Mashino, emphasizing the role of art in transforming ordinary spaces.

Featured Art Installations

• - Katsugiri Jin’s Multi-Purpose Restroom: Reflecting an energetic and colorful theme.
• - CAB's Men's Restroom: Engaging visitors with intricate designs.
• - RYU AMBE’s Men's Restroom: Bringing elements of nature into an everyday setting.
• - Luise Ono’s Women’s Restroom: Infusing serenity and aesthetic appeal.

By offering a fresh perspective on mundane facilities, these art pieces are designed to uplift and inspire those who visit.

Educating the Next Generation

Adding further depth to the initiative, DRAGON76 visited nearby schools, including Midorigaoka Elementary, Arakido Elementary, and Takatsu Junior High School. During these visits, he captivated approximately 1,400 students with discussions on creative freedom, urging them to express themselves through art. His dynamic painting performances enchanted the children, leaving them with memories of creativity and inspiration.

Community Workshops and Live Performances

In mid-October, the initiative hosted a series of workshops and mini concerts at ism Midorigaoka, featuring hands-on experiences such as pottery and live painting. Over two days, more than 500 attendees participated, celebrating the joy of art together as a community. Positive feedback poured in, with comments like, “I’m so happy a place like this has opened in our town!” reflecting the project's successful integration into local life.

Moreover, artworks created during the workshops have become part of the aesthetic fabric of the restrooms, showcasing community-driven creativity and adding a personal touch to public spaces.

The Road Ahead

Maruhan East Japan is committed to maintaining and expanding the Yachiyo Art Project as a continual bridge connecting art and the local community. By creating inviting experiences that foster joy amidst daily routines, they aim to circulate creativity and nurture interactions within the community.

Future plans include further involving residents and local artists to strengthen community bonds. As articulated by Maruhan’s management, “Our endeavors will continue to energize Yachiyo through the power of art.”

With such promising initiatives, the Yachiyo Art Project stands poised to redefine public spaces, proving that art indeed has the power to uplift and inspire in everyday life.

Participating Artists

Among the artists involved in the project are:

• - Toilet Art: CAB, TOMASON, Katsugiri Jin, RYU AMBE, Luise Ono, Kensuke Takahashi, T Design, SHUN NAKAO, YUH TAKUNO, Yukari Yamada, and Yuragi.
• - Workshop Artists: DRAGON76, Tiny N, Fuyuki Shimazu, Katsugiri Jin, Yuragi (Masaki Matsumoto, Naoko Adachi), T Design, DOKKA vivid, Megumi Matsukawa, and MAINAMIND.

As this innovative project evolves, it exemplifies a vibrant future where communities thrive through the transformative power of art.