Empowering Young Minds: Art Workshop for Noto Peninsula Earthquake Recovery

On August 22, 2026, the Pola Museum Annex, located in Ginza, Tokyo, organized a unique art workshop titled "Experiencing, Creating, and Connecting Through Art" in Nanao, aimed at providing support for the recovery from the Noto Peninsula earthquake. The workshop targeted middle and high school students from the Nanao region, creating an invaluable opportunity for these young individuals to express themselves artistically amidst their community's rebuilding efforts.

The Noto Peninsula earthquake, which struck on January 1, 2024, significantly impacted the lives of the local residents. As the process of recovery continues, it is essential to nurture an environment where children feel safe to connect with others, take on new challenges, and express their thoughts and feelings. The Pola Museum Annex initiated charity programs in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on providing ongoing support to the Noto Peninsula region following the earthquake.

The motivation behind this workshop stems from a deep desire to assist children who have lost various opportunities for experience due to the disaster. The organizers, driven by the belief that the creative power of art can inspire young minds to look ahead and foster hope for the future, crafted this workshop with love and intention.

Workshop Highlights

The workshop commenced with a presentation by the workshop’s facilitator, sculptor Yuushi Nishijima, who is known for his works that explore mythical themes and animal forms. Nishijima engaged students with discussions on the principles of sculpture, including how to create shapes and balance structures. Participants utilized pliers and colored wires to sculpt their unique three-dimensional artworks, persevering through trials and errors in the process.

As students worked on their creations, they received valuable advice from Nishijima on material handling and achieving balance in their sculptures. Many young artists focused on movements and skeletal structures of animals, customizing their pieces with inventive flair.

In the latter part of the event, participants showcased their creations. From vibrant birds to flowing jellyfish and fierce dinosaurs, an array of unique pieces filled the room. Nishijima took the time to provide thoughtful feedback, emphasizing the importance of the creative journey rather than just the final products. This interactive session allowed students to appreciate each other's works, creating a shared experience that highlighted the joys of making and expressing themselves through art.

The Pola Museum Annex cherishes the rich creativity displayed by the children and their connection to the local community fostered through this workshop. They plan to continue providing platforms that celebrate artistic expression and strengthen ties with the Noto region, contributing to the healthy growth of the children who will shape the future.

About the Workshop Facilitator

Yuushi Nishijima, the workshop's lead facilitator, is a renowned sculptor who completed his master's degree in sculpture at the Tokyo University of the Arts in 1995. His practice involves connecting coiled copper wire elements to create captivating sculptures and installations inspired by the animal kingdom and mythological motifs. Nishijima held a solo exhibition at the Pola Museum Annex in 2023 and contributed to the charity auction for the museum.

Event Summary

- Date: August 22, 2026 (Saturday)
- Time: 14:00 – 16:00
- Location: Nanao Art Museum Hall, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Target Audience: Middle school to high school students from Nanao (Free entry)
- Facilitator: Yuushi Nishijima (Sculptor)
- Organizer: Oratcha Nanao
- Supported by: Nanao City / Nanao City Board of Education
- Planning and Management: Pola Orbis Holdings Inc. (Pola Museum Annex)

This art workshop stands as a testament to the strength of community bonds and the lasting impact of artistic engagement, especially in the wake of devastating events. Together, we can work towards a more resilient future.