A message from the director:

Arts Council Saitama is a new organization. While being mindful of our daily growth, we aim to gradually make the world a better place. Some may doubt whether matters related to arts and culture can truly improve society. Arts and culture are uniquely human creations. Starting from concepts in our minds, we express them through writing, pictures, and forms, or through performance, dance, and song. By accumulating such acts throughout our history, we humans have built what we call civilization.

You might think you’re too busy with work and daily life to engage with culture. However, you might try hanging pictures or posters on your walls, beautifying your garden or balcony, taking up a new musical instrument, starting yoga or dance, or sharing stories with friends about different cultures encountered during travels. I believe that by starting from such small challenges, our daily lives gradually become more enjoyable and enriched.

We at the Arts Council want to support such aspirations. If you want to try something new but wonder if there are people who could teach you or join you, or if you feel hesitant about participating in local events, we hope you’ll remember us in such moments. We might be able to give you that little nudge forward. Or, if you’re unsure where to start, we can be there to consult with you.

We believe that bringing arts and culture closer to daily life, making living itself feel more enriched, is one path toward improving society. With this in mind, we too wish to grow day by day.

Ryuichiro Mori
Program Director