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12th “Angels Drawing Pictures”
International Exchange Exhibition for Boys and　Girls　2024

The 2024 exhibition has successfully concluded.  We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who visited and to all the supporters who made this event possible.  This exhibition provided an opportunity for all the visitors witness the creativity and richness of expression of children, serving as a bridge between the local community and the world.

     The exhibition was held at four venues: Machida City, Mitaka City, Koganei City, Tokyo and Sapporo City, Hokkaido, from December 2024 to March 2025.  The displayed works were created by children from 12 countries both Japan and overseas.  Each piece was so unique, reflecting the individual cultures and backgrounds of the creators.

     We received many warm comments from visitors, such as, “I was moved by the children’s pure sensitivity.” “I received energy from the works.” and “Although the children are the same age, the expressions in the works differed by country, which made it very interesting.”Additionally, a corner was set up at the venue to show videos of the creation process of children both Japan and abroad, giving visitors a glimpse into the children’s creative journey.

     The children were dedicated to their creations in preparation for the annual exhibition.  The children proudly and somewhat shyly introduced their works and teachers shared the children’s progress with parents, fostering a deeper emotional bond between them.  Through art, we have also had joy of witnessing the growth of the children.

     As part of the exhibition, we continued the annual workshop of sending message cards to the creators.  At the venue, anyone-domestic or international- could write a message card and once deposited it in the designated postbox, the cards were later delivered to the artists.  This workshop facilitated interaction among the children and between children from different countries, leading to deeper emotional connections.

     The craft corner also made a comeback, where children enjoyed creating original ornaments.  The children were fully engaged in their work, and each piece demonstrated their individual personalities.

Information on media publicity
The exhibition was featured in the Italian international journal “INCONTRI” which the charm of the exhibition and the children’s works were highlighted.  Additionally, the local cable TV station in Sapporo conducted an interview and broadcasted which gave many people an opportunity to learn the exhibition.

    In closing, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to all those who supported this exhibition.  We will continue to nurture opportunities children can freely express themselves and we ask for your ongoing support.

Asuna Takahashi

(翻訳)Mieko Woka