Hello. I am Terashima, the representative employee of Jibun Rashiku LLC.
How do you "experience" art pieces?
We believe that art is not merely something to be displayed on museum or gallery walls and viewed from afar. We believe it holds the potential to become a "personal experience" that resonates with people's senses by becoming closer to our daily lives, through touch, through movement, or by being presented in unexpected ways. We continue to explore how not just the artworks themselves, but also the ideas for their "presentation" and "usage," can be powerful forms of artistic expression.
With such thoughts in mind, several months ago, while searching for a new venue for expression, an event announcement popped up on SNS (Threads): "Art Runway," an event where participants walk the red carpet with their artwork.
"This is incredible! This is exactly what we were looking for – an event where the presentation of the artwork itself becomes art. Moreover, it's entertaining, and both artists and spectators can enjoy it together. It's the best!"
I felt that way instinctively and immediately applied to participate.
On the day of the event, Otsu Station Square, the venue, was filled with incredible excitement and anticipation. Then, finally, it was time for the red carpet. Walking with my artwork in hand, feeling the gaze of many people, was an unprecedented and precious experience.
Please take a look at these photos (taken by photographer Ue-sama →https://www.instagram.com/ugo_uesama/).
If you look at the faces of the artists in these photos, words are unnecessary. Everyone is overflowing with joy. I believe these expressions tell the story of how wonderful the Art Runway event truly was more than anything else.
The organizer who planned and realized this event is Ms. Toyomi. While she herself stood on stage as a performing artist, she proceeded with preparations with astonishing meticulousness, passion, and great affection, from the detailed arrangements on the day of the event to the creation of promotional videos in advance. I was deeply impressed by her dedication and time, and her ability to involve others in realizing a single "this is how it should be" vision. There was so much to learn that it made me wonder, "Could I do this much?"
What was most deeply etched in my heart from Art Runway was the "circulation of joy."
Ms. Toyomi's strong desire as the organizer – "I want this event to succeed, and I want everyone involved to be happy" – combined with her own joy in the process of creating the event, became a great joy for the participating artists, fostering a warm "circulation of joy" among the performers. And this positive ripple undoubtedly reached the audience in the venue, and I felt that the entire Otsu Station Square was enveloped in the fervor of art and an atmosphere of joy at that moment.
Art Runway, where the idea of "how to present artwork" itself becomes art, touching many hearts and creating a warm "circulation of joy."
What Jibun Rashiku LLC aims for through art and expressive activities is precisely such a society where each individual shines "in their own unique way" (jibun rashiku) and that joy spreads to those around them. Participating in this Art Runway provided a significant hint for our activities and strengthened our desire to create a similar "circulation of joy."
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Toyomi, the organizer who provided such a wonderful opportunity, and to all the artists, staff, and audience members who co-created this event and shared this magnificent space.
Believing in the infinite possibilities of art and the "circulation of joy," Jibun Rashiku LLC will continue its activities. If the opportunity arises again, we would certainly love to participate in Art Runway!
【Introduction to "Art Runway" Event We Participated In】
The "Art Runway" that we recently participated in is a unique event that presents new possibilities for art presentation, where participants "walk the red carpet with their artwork." It created a space where artists and audiences became one to experience art and share joy. If you are interested in Art Runway's activities, related merchandise, or wish to support them, please visit their official website. A photo book from this Art Runway will also be available for pre-order. The next event is scheduled to be held in Tokyo in July.
Art Runway https://artrunway.official.ec/