Please come and see the solo exhibition at the small handmade gallery. 2003 "KYOKO GALLERY"

It's been 20 years since then.
As I was thinking about this and organizing my files, I had the idea to post it.

At that time, I was working part-time at a restaurant and as a cleaner, while also painting for my next solo exhibition. I also received commissions and painted for them.
I was pretty absorbed in the painting.
On the other hand, there are things like money, children, parents, etc...
My life was in chaos and drawing was my solace.

Perhaps it is because of the times we live in? The photographs from the solo exhibition have been forgotten without us even realizing it.

It was a small hut that we rented.
This is a handmade mini gallery where the walls have been repainted white and a raised area has been created for a tea space where customers can relax.

There was a park right in front of me and it was very comfortable with lots of greenery.
We also cleaned abandoned toilets in the park every time so that they could be used.
It was a little far from my house,
I used to go there by bus about 3-4 times a week.

And then,
I was found by some elementary school students on their way home from school.
"Can I come over later when I get home?"
"Sure. I'll wait!" And so, four or five cute customers came to me.
We served them tea, some sweets and gave them a postcard as a gift for visiting.

The children were surprised at the unexpected hospitality of the gallery guests, saying, "The paintings are great!"
"Yes, I love this picture!"
He said this as he carefully examined each piece.
"I want to draw too!"
One of the boys asked me to do so, so I took out some drawing paper and colored pencils and asked everyone to draw.

Everyone had serious expressions on their faces, and some of the children even copied my drawing.
"The pictures are great - it's fun."
He said with a sincere expression,

"I'm also bored and having fun."
So, that group of little kids with backpacks
"I'll come later!"

It was a children's gallery with tea, sweets and drawing.
-Kyoko