Tokyo exhibition highlights works by artists with disabilities

From NHK World

June 16 2026

TOKYO – A gallery in Tokyo has put on display a collection of artworks that’s drawing a lot of attention. The pieces were all created by artists with disabilities and range in style from pop art to mythical interpretations.

The exhibition is organized by “HERALBONY,” a company based in Iwate Prefecture in northeastern Japan.
The lifestyle brand uses works of art created by people with disabilities to make clothing and accessories.

The company held its first international art award in 2024 to provide a platform for neurodivergent artists.
The 2026 contest received almost 3,000 submissions from 77 countries and regions.
On show this year are a selection of the most outstanding entries from 2026, featuring more than 60 works.

The 2026 Grand Prize was awarded to Kar Hang Mui from the Netherlands. He used colored pencils over several months to create a layer of images expressing what came to his mind.

Another piece by local textile artist Yuina was created using traditional Japanese needle stitching called “sashiko” to make vibrant patterns.

Other artworks are equally unique, including one by American artist Ocean with the words “Time Got Away From Me” handwritten over and over again.

Matsuda Takaya, co-CEO of the company explains that some artists with severe intellectual disabilities keep drawing because they genuinely love doing it.
“We hope viewers appreciate the artistic purity of these works, created without concern for social recognition,” he added.

The exhibition is being held in Tokyo’s Marunouchi district and runs until June 27.