#Japan #KADOKAWA #Mika Pikazo #Tokorozawa #Tanka Poetry

Exploring the Emotions Exhibition: A Unique Blend of Tanka and Illustrations

The upcoming Emotions Exhibition, helmed by the renowned illustrator Mika Pikazo, promises to be a transformative experience, showcasing the intricate connection between Tanka poetry and visual illustrations. Opening on February 13, 2026, at the Kadokawa Musashino Museum in Tokorozawa, Saitama, this exhibition invites visitors to delve into the emotional essence that binds these two different artistic forms. Running until March 29, 2026, the event aims to engage a wide audience, from teenagers to international visitors, in the captivating allure of Tanka poetry.

A Cultural Initiative

This exhibition is part of the national project Japan Expo 2.0, aimed at promoting Japan's cultural arts and its diverse, universal appeal. Recent years have seen a significant rise in the popularity of Tanka, especially among younger generations on social media platforms. In response, this exhibition seeks to bridge traditional Japanese poetry with modern artistic expression, highlighting the emotions that resonate through both mediums.

Contest Featuring Pixiv Collaboration

Alongside the exhibition, there will be two contests in collaboration with Pixiv, engaging participants in inter-expressive creativity. The competitions—Illustration Contest from Tanka and Tanka Contest from Illustration—commence on September 10, 2025, and promise to showcase winning works at the exhibition. Participants will have the chance to express emotions through illustrations inspired by selected Tanka or to write Tanka that reflect particular illustrations.

Exhibition Overview

• - Exhibition Title: Emotions Exhibition: Merging Tanka and Illustrations
• - Dates: February 13 - March 29, 2026
• - Location: 3rd floor of Kadokawa Musashino Museum, Tokorozawa Sakura Town

The official website for the exhibition is available here and updates will be shared via the exhibition's official X account.

Emotional Resonance in Art

Mika Pikazo's creative direction emphasizes the themes of emotion shared between Tanka poetry and illustrations. While Tanka, an age-old Japanese poetic form, focuses on conveying deep feelings through structured language, illustrations serve as a visual manifestation that can amplify those emotions and narratives.
Both mediums, while distinct in their methods—Tanka relying on words, and illustrations on visuals—share a foundational process where emotions are articulated and artists strive to connect with their audience. This shared emotional undercurrent is what the Emotions Exhibition seeks to explore, presenting visitors with an opportunity to reflect upon their own feelings.

Mika Pikazo: The Visionary Behind the Exhibition

Mika Pikazo emerged as a notable figure in the illustration world after graduating high school. With a penchant for South American culture, she spent two-and-a-half years in Brazil before returning to Japan to establish herself as a freelance illustrator. She has contributed to notable projects including the Disney Collection and Nintendo's Fire Emblem Engage, and is celebrated for her involvement in various visual arts across pop culture. Her exhibitions have previously attracted over 110,000 visitors, showcasing her impact on the art community.

The Emotions Exhibition is designed as more than just an art show; it’s a must-visit cultural phenomenon intertwined with the narrative of love, joy, pain, and the full spectrum of human emotions. Whether you are a fan of literature, art, or simply looking for an enriching experience, this exhibition promises to resonate deeply.

For more detailed information on the exhibition and participation in the contests, please visit the respective links provided. This is an incredible opportunity for those looking to engage with Japan's rich cultural tapestry while exploring the timeless themes of human emotion.