Association for Corporate Support of the Arts. - Kigyo Mécénat Kyogikai

“Able Art Kinki – Human/Art/Community” began in 2000 as an activity in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Labour Bank movement. “Able Art” has been held annually for six times up to fiscal year 2005, touring six prefectures in the Kinki region.

Kinki Labour Bank identifies with the “Able Art” activities that aim to reconsider the relationship between and among people and society through the artistic activities of handicapped individuals. Kinki Labour Bank collaborates with the “Tanpopo no ye Foundation” and establishes a working committee with local supporters every time an event is held. Exhibitions and workshops are held in various “communities,” including facilities and shopping arcades.

In “Able Art 06” held in Shiga, artworks were created in collaboration by the handicapped people and artists, while performances were held with gamelan performing groups. In addition, “Private Museums” that exhibit able artworks in homes and stores, and “Public Heritage (as opposed to World Heritage),” a photographic project in which people take photographs of their daily life, were held during the short but eventful 10-day period. Employees of Kinki Labour Bank’s offices participated as the operating staff with approximately 80 public volunteers.

With these activities, Able Art is receiving more attention nationwide and is now being strongly requested by local cities to continue their multifaceted activities held within each “Community.” In fiscal year 2006, “Able Art” will be held in a new style in Osaka and is now seeking ways to further recruit public participation.