[The Magic of Art 03] An experience creating at the Yokohama Museum of Art's "Children's Atelier"
In March 2024, the Yokohama Museum of Art reopened after a large-scale renovation project that lasted three years. In November, as the museum celebrates its 35th anniversary, some areas will be relaunched, bringing the museum back to life. This time, we spoke with Taishi Sonoda and Momo Takiguchi, educators who plan educational outreach activities at the "Children's Atelier" facility within the Yokohama Museum of Art, about their work during the long closure and the new programs that are attracting attention.
(Top image: From left, Taishi Sonoda and Momo Takiguchi)
Fostering the desire to "give it a try!"
"Children's Atelier" is a specialized facility that offers programs aimed at introducing children from preschool age to 12 years old to art through hands-on experiences.
The three rooms—a playroom, a craft room, and a light and sound studio—along with a courtyard, which were reserved from the design stage, provide a spacious area for children. Since its opening, many children from Yokohama and other areas have enjoyed art freely here through "programs for schools" and individual art and art appreciation programs.
—The reopening of the "Children's Atelier" in November 2024 is fast approaching.
"Sonoda : Finally!" seems like the right word. I'm so happy that we can finally respond to the voices of everyone who has been eagerly awaiting our reopening after approximately three years of extensive renovation work.
—What were you two educators doing during the museum's closure?
We held arts workshops such as the "Hermit Crab Program" at Sonoda's temporary base, "PLOT 48." Taking advantage of the space's different atmosphere from a typical art museum, we also prepared programs that parents and children could participate in together, and many people took part.
Takiguchi: I organized approximately 30,000 positive films that had been carefully preserved, documenting our activities from the past 30 years. I reviewed the important records of the workshops, checked the condition of the films, and compiled them.
Through these activities, we can gain insights and experiences from seeing the children's artwork and projects. We believe we can offer new programs born from these experiences in the future.
I want to try it myself! Cherish that feeling.
—The "Everyone's Free Zone" will start in November, right?
This program allows children to freely experience sculpting using three materials: Sonoda clay, paint, and paper. These three materials are ones we have primarily used in the past and are well-suited for children to see, touch, and try for themselves.
The children looked at the large lump of clay that had just been mixed in the clay mixer, poked it with their fingers, kneaded it, rolled it into balls, and shaped it... I'm sure even the adults would want to try it (laughs).
Takiguchi: Soft clay is interesting, isn't it?
For parents and children of preschool age, we also recommend our weekday "First Art and Craft Play" sessions. Children can freely paint with four colors—red, blue, yellow, and white—make colored water, and have a wonderful time.
―We should both wear clothes that we don't mind getting dirty and have a great time! We'd love to participate as a family.
With its newly established gallery, the art library now more accessible on the ground floor, and the cafe and shops facing the art plaza, the Yokohama Museum of Art's appeal only continues to grow. Keep an eye on its evolution as it powers up for its full reopening in February 2025.
Text by Mai Shimura (editor/writer)
Yokohama Museum of Art
Address: 3-4-1 Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Phone number: 045-221-0300
Official website: Click here
