#Japan #Setagaya #Art Design Lab #Upcycle Art #Kodomo Department

The Exciting New Chapter of Upcycle Art with Kodomo Department

The vibrant world of creativity is opening its doors wide as the 'Kodomo Department' event approaches, which is organized by the Art Design Lab located in Setagaya, Tokyo. This extraordinary two-day event invites children aged four and older to dive into an educational journey of upcycling art, transforming scraps and leftover materials into masterpieces of imagination.

In November 2025, the initiative to recruit material partners was launched, resulting in an enthusiastic response from companies and organizations. We are thrilled to announce that 15 companies have officially joined as material partners, contributing their discarded materials for the children's creative projects. These partners include leading firms like Hakuten Co., Ltd, Zebra Japan, and many more. Each partner believes in the mission of transforming waste into valuable art, thus improving community engagement and enhancing corporate social responsibility (CSR).

One of the key highlights of this initiative is the creative corner where materials from everyday waste are brought back to life through children's creativity. From colorful scraps of paper and fabric to wooden bits and packaging, the event will showcase an eclectic range of materials, enabling kids to 'run' their own mini-stores as 'Kodomo shopkeepers,' while adult volunteers take on the role of 'Otona managers.' This unique collaboration not only promotes creativity among children but also strengthens community ties by involving volunteers from various generations.

Moreover, during the event, attendees can also indulge in the ART BAR, where little bartenders creatively serve projects using the provided materials, reflecting the joyful intersection of art and collaboration.

The opening of the Art Design Lab classroom for this two-day event will allow parents, guardians, and young artists to experience first-hand the magic of creation and witness unfinished pieces in a special exhibition.

In addition to these activities, there will be a pivotal discussion with special guests on 'Art and Education,' highlighting the significant role they play in children's creative processes. The 'Super Press Conference' will conclude the event, allowing young artists to present their unique experiences and creative journeys, hence showcasing the power of curiosity and imagination in fostering creativity.

Future Plans for Kodomo Department

As we look ahead, the goal remains firm – to connect the dots between local businesses, the community, and children through the continuation of this creative platform. Our ambition is to grow the number of material partners to 100 and further extend our reach by actively engaging with more businesses and organizations, promoting sustainability and creative education at every step. Currently, inquiries continue to rise, and we are set to kick off the second recruiting round for material partners, thus solidifying our commitment to the upcycle art movement across the community.

If your company or organization is interested in joining this innovative project, we welcome your participation. The deadline for submissions of materials is January 10th, and all contributors will be recognized during the event, ensuring their valuable support is acknowledged.

Find out more about this event and the registrations at Kodomo Department Web. Join us in Setagaya on February 7th and 8th, 2026 for a celebration of creativity where children will turn waste into wonder, igniting a future of endless possibilities.

The 'Kodomo Department' is not just an event; it's a movement aimed at nurturing creativity, responsibility, and environmental consciousness. With every piece of material donated, we're building a brighter, more imaginative future for our children. Let’s create together!