YUKA Ogawa Web Solo Exhibition Children, dreams, and stories

My creative work began with honestly facing the emotions that arise from the heart.

Seeing the exhibitions of children at local nurseries is very heartwarming, and I am moved by each expression.
The heart that expresses itself has been overflowing in people's hearts since they were very young.
I have been following that for a long time.
Since I was little, I have expressed emotions I couldn't put into words through pictures and words.
No matter what goes on, always turning it into pictures, colors, and words heals my heart.

Now, I am deeply moved by the healing power of art while engaging in art activities.
I hope everyone can understand the world of my paintings.

Activity History
So far, we have worked together with children, adults, and the elderly at various welfare facilities, educational institutions, and senior care centers to stimulate brain development and promote emotional liberation through creative activities such as paintings and objects.

Additionally, at the art studio 'Atelier Maru,' we value interactions with children, people with disabilities, and young people who have experienced social withdrawal, making creative spaces where they can create in a peaceful environment.

The Japanese painting I studied at Kyoto University of the Arts resonates with the warmth of natural materials like mineral pigments and glue, which resonate deeply with everyone living today. Born and raised in Hiroshima, I pray for peace, and surrounded by Shiga's rich nature, I hope to create works that blend traditional techniques with a modern sensibility, gently accompanying the hearts of viewers and bringing joy to life.

Social Worker, Mental Health Social Worker, Nursery Teacher, Level 4 Clinical Artist, Touch For Health Instructor

My creative journey began with opening my heart to the emotions that naturally arise within me.
Seeing exhibitions of children’s paintings at a nearby nursery always warms my heart and deeply moves me with each unique expression.
The desire to express ourselves has always lived within the human heart, even from childhood — and I’ve been following that impulse all my life.
Since I was young, I’ve expressed feelings that I couldn’t put into words through painting and writing. No matter what challenges I face, transforming them into colors, images, and words brings healing and peace to my heart.
Today, I continue my art practice while being inspired by the power of art to heal and connect. Through my work, I hope to share a sense of warmth and harmony with all who see it.
Activities and Experience
I have facilitated creative programs at welfare centers, schools, and senior facilities, supporting children, adults, and the elderly in exploring art as a way to awaken the mind and free the heart.
At my studio, Atelier Maru, I focus on creating a peaceful space where children, people with disabilities, and young individuals who have experienced social withdrawal can enjoy artistic expression in their own way.
While studying Japanese painting (Nihonga) at Kyoto University of the Arts, I was deeply inspired by the gentle warmth of natural materials such as mineral pigments and nikawa (animal glue). I believe these traditional elements can still touch modern hearts.
Born and raised in Hiroshima with a prayer for peace, and now living amidst the beautiful nature of Shiga, I aim to combine traditional techniques with a contemporary sensibility, creating works that gently resonate with viewers and celebrate the joy of life.
Qualifications
Certified Social Worker / Psychiatric Social Worker / Nursery Teacher / Clinical Art Therapist (Level 4) / Touch for Health Instructor