OVER ALLs' Futaba Art District Nominated as Finalist for 2025 ART & BUSINESS AWARD

OVER ALLs' Futaba Art District: A Beacon of Hope in Fukushima

The mural project, Futaba Art District, launched by OVER ALLs, has been recognized as a finalist for the ART & BUSINESS AWARD 2025 in the Local Impact category. This initiative aims to revitalize the community of Futaba, Fukushima, which was left desolate after the nuclear disaster, and it underscores the transformative power of art in creating economic and social value.

Understanding the Futaba Art District Project

In a town where the population has dwindled to zero due to the nuclear incident, OVER ALLs sought to reconnect the memories and hopes of former residents through vibrant murals. The project commenced in 2020 with the collaboration of former residents, resulting in the creation of 15 murals that encapsulate the essence of their experiences and heritage.

The project expanded in 2022 with a large-scale mural that celebrates the smiles of 25 residents, serving as a powerful reminder of the community's spirit and resilience. The murals are not merely aesthetic additions to the town; they are catalysts for rekindling connections to the past and establishing reasons for people to visit and engage with the area. This initiative has garnered significant attention, leading to the project receiving a commendation from the Futaba town authorities in 2023, acknowledging the positive impact of their work.

ART & BUSINESS AWARD 2025: Celebrating Innovation in Art-Driven Business

The ART & BUSINESS AWARD 2025, organized by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and Forbes Japan, aims to promote collaborations between businesses and artists that generate new economic value. The project aspires to build a sustainable ecosystem where the arts thrive alongside business ventures. This inaugural year has attracted over 150 entries, showcasing a multitude of initiatives that leverage art to create innovative solutions and economic value in their communities.

Being selected as a finalist in the Local Impact category signifies acknowledgment of OVER ALLs' efforts in redefining community support through artistic expression. This award category recognizes projects that create economic value through engagement with local characteristics and artistry. As a finalist, Futaba Art District is positioned as a role model within the sector, demonstrating how art can foster relationships and drive economic recovery.