Atelier Yamanami and Rinko Kawauchi

Opening Reception: Saturday, January 17, 4-6 pm

In January 2026, Nonaka Hill Kyoto will stage an exhibition in collaboration with the Atelier Yamanami and Rinko Kawauchi. Operating since 1986 in Koka City (Shiga Prefecture) under the direction of Yamashita Masato, the atelier is a singularly magical place - an arts center with an unwavering dedication to artists with developmental challenges - where creativity and freedom are the only guidelines. Unbound by any formal arts education, members make pure and earnest work, free of the constraints of the formalized art world. The atelier provides all the tools and materials of a highly professionalized studio; while supportive staff and caretakers create an environment optimized for free expression.

Rinko Kawauchi (b. 1972), known for her lush images of nature and quotidian life, visited the atelier numerous times over a span of 3 years, photographing the facilities and surrounding area as well as its members and staff both in their daily and studio pursuits. The body of images shows a place and community fully dedicated to creativity.