Exploring Identity Through Art: Edogawa Box Art Workshop Wrap-Up

Edogawa Box Art Workshop: A Reflective Artistic Journey

The Edogawa Cultural Center, under the direction of Director Toshimitsu Saito, hosted a significant event related to the 5th Edogawa Box Art Exhibition. This workshop, titled "Thinking About Who I Am," was conceived and supervised by Katsuhiko Hibino, the president of Tokyo University of the Arts. Held on September 4 and October 6, 2025, the workshop aimed at fostering self-reflection and accepting others while creating a vision for a collaborative future.

The workshop encouraged participants to confront their identities and understand their relationships with those around them. As part of a support program for the exhibition, attendees engaged in a creative process that emphasized communication and expression. During the second session on October 6, participants were given colored paper of random shapes and colors. Using these materials, they created unique artworks and crafted stories inspired by their creations. This exchange of colors and ideas led to a lively atmosphere, where genuine interactions blossomed.

Katsuhiko Hibino emphasized the transformative nature of the workshop experience, stating, "The experience of changing the paper dealt to you by fate through your own will provides an opportunity to reflect on what you are in daily life." He illustrated how the creative process can enrich one's life.

The Edogawa Box Art Exhibition is open to everyone, regardless of age, background, or experience, and seeks to connect people through the power of culture. This initiative aims to promote a society where cohabitation is possible through the arts, fostering understanding and acceptance among individuals.

Feedback from participants indicated a profound impact; many expressed that they had previously viewed artwork creation as a daunting task but found it refreshing to simply start creating. Comments included, "I realized I was overthinking the process, and I decided to just let my hands do the work," and, "I learned to engage gradually with others during this journey."

As the workshop concluded, it was clear that the participants found the experience invaluable, with many noting how it greatly influenced their artistic process.

The main exhibition, part of the Edogawa Box Art series, continues until December 22, 2025, and is free to the public. Visitors are welcome to witness the diverse array of artworks and participate in this cultural experience.

Event Details

Workshop Title: Thinking About Who I Am (Completed)
Dates: September 4, 2025, and October 6, 2025

5th Edogawa Box Art Exhibition: Currently Ongoing
Exhibition Dates: November 21, 2025 to December 22, 2025
Award Ceremony on December 7, 2025; Center Closed on December 17, 2025
Venue: Central Lobby, Edogawa Cultural Center (Free Admission)
Official Website: Edogawa Box Art