“What does ‘Niji’ mean?” a visitor asks. It means rainbow. Welcome to Atelier Niji, a vibrant art space in Tokyo. This gallery is not just a place to view art. It is a place where art is created and where everyone’s colors mix to create a rainbow.
Atelier Niji is led by Keiko Imai. She is a painter and art instructor. Keiko Imai was born in Miyagi Prefecture in 1946. She studied under Futsugoro Miyagi. He founded the Sendai Art Institute. She also studied under Akira Imai at Shinsekidokai. In 1992, she and her husband Akira Imai founded Atelier Niji in Setagaya Ward. After Akira Imai passed away in 1998, Keiko Imai took over Atelier Niji.
At Atelier Niji, there are no set themes. What you do is up to you. It is a place to explore what you want to try. It is a place to shape your ideas. It is a place to face yourself.
Keiko Imai respects each person’s unique life. She believes everyone has the power to express themselves. She encourages people to trust their abilities. At Atelier Niji, adults simply believe in each person’s potential. They watch over them. Each person thinks for themselves. They begin to shine with colors that only they can create.
The atelier offers painting and modeling classes. These classes foster creativity. Everyone is welcome from children to adults. The goal is to create a space. It is a space where everyone can express themselves freely. It is a space where everyone can find their own voice through art.
One unique aspect of Atelier Niji is its welcoming atmosphere. The studio is in a 40-year-old, two-story home. The atelier occupies part of the first floor. Visitors take off their shoes before entering. This style is popular among the kids.
The atelier hosts a painting circle called “Tsuki no Kai” or Moon Group. The atelier also holds exhibitions. They display works from classes.
So come explore Atelier Niji. Discover your own colors. Add them to the rainbow.