Purpose
The Koji Kinutani Art Foundation centers its efforts on the Koji Kinutani Art Award, sponsored by the Sankei Shimbun, which recognizes exceptional creative work by emerging artists. Through this initiative, we support the creation of figurative painting within the fine arts domain.
The Foundation was established with the purpose of contributing to the advancement of Japan’s artistic culture. We pursue this goal through a variety of activities, including the public exhibition of works by painter Koji Kinutani, provision of resources for scholarly research, organization of lectures and workshops, and promotion of art education and public awareness. These endeavors collectively serve to elevate and disseminate artistic knowledge and appreciation, furthering the development of our nation’s cultural and artistic landscape.
Greeting upon Appointment as the New Representative Director
On August 1, 2025, Koji Kinutani, the founding Representative Director of the Koji Kinutani Art Foundation, passed away peacefully. I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the kindness and warm support you extended to him during his lifetime.
I am writing to formally announce that, as of August 25, 2025, I, Hiromi Kinutani, have assumed the role of Representative Director of the Foundation. While I am mindful of the weight of this responsibility, I am firmly committed to carrying forward the late Director’s legacy and dedicating myself wholeheartedly to this mission.
Koji Kinutani lived his 82-year creative journey with unwavering passion, facing his canvas until his very last moment. Born in the ancient capital of Nara during the final years of World War II, he grew up in solitude, separated from his parents. Yet, he eventually became a painter who cast his gaze upon the world. He was awakened by the light of Italy, sang hymns to life, confronted sorrow, and built a rich tapestry of encounters with diverse lands and people across the globe.
At the core of his 82-year journey, there was always a steady current of “Love.” In his later years, Koji often spoke of the concept of “Funi-homon” (Non-Duality) from the Vimalakirti Sutra—the idea that seemingly opposing concepts are not separate, but coexist as one. Water and oil, man and woman, sun and moon, war and peace. He believed that these elements, though appearing different at first glance, are part of a single whole. I believe his artistic expression was a continuous quest for peace, entrusted to love, even in such a complex world.
On April 19, 2026, we will open “KINUTANI Art Place Hiroo” in Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.
In this intimate space, we hope that the artistic career of Koji Kinutani will resonate with the “joy of creation” and the “power of imagination” that reside within each and every visitor. Through our art-making events, we aim to provide moments of delight and fulfillment where everyone can freely express and share their unique visions.
The Foundation will continue to fulfill its mission of contributing to society through art awards and the promotion of figurative painting, taking new steps forward to ensure that Koji’s devotion to art is passed on to the next generation.
We humbly ask for your continued guidance and support.
Hiromi Kinutani Representative Director Koji Kinutani Art Foundation
Overview
| Legal Name | Koji Kinutani Art Foundation (Public Interest Incorporated Foundation) |
| Location | 4-6-15 Seijo, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo |
| Established | April 1, 2022 |
| Representative Director | Hiromi Kinutani |
| Directors | Hojiro Otaka Hitoshi Murakami |
| Auditor | Taku Umezawa |
| Trustees | Toshiro Muto Seiichi Shimada Kota Kinutani |
| Executive Director | Kenji Kinutani |
| Chief, Archives and Research Department | Ryosuke Yamakoshi |
| Article of Incorporation | Koji Kinutani Art Foundation Articles of Incorporation (PDF/148KB) |
| Balance Sheets | Fiscal Year 2022 Balance Sheet (PDF/19KB) Fiscal Year 2023 Balance Sheet (PDF/69KB) Fiscal Year 2024 Balance Sheet (PDF/7KB) |
Our Activities
Awards Program
Koji Kinutani Art Award
The Koji Kinutani Art Award is an initiative born from the vision of Koji Kinutani, a Western-style painter who was awarded the Order of Culture in 2021. This program is designed to support emerging painters. Our aim is to foster the development of young artists who will shape the future of art, provide crucial support for their artistic endeavors, and contribute to the continued growth and vitality of the art world. Through this award, we aspire to create a lasting impact on the artistic landscape, nurturing talent that will drive innovation and excellence in the field of fine arts.
Public Awareness & Outreach
Exhibitions & Public Showcases
“KINUTANI Art Place Hiroo” is a dedicated space where visitors can fully immerse themselves in the vivid colors, vibrant energy, and the 70-year creative passion of Koji Kinutani, a recipient of the Order of Culture.
Educational Programs
The Foundation organizes educational and community outreach programs at “KINUTANI Art Place Hiroo,” including hands-on art workshops and lectures.
Archives
To foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of figurative painting, the Foundation is dedicated to building the Koji Kinutani Archive, which serves as a vital foundation for research and cultural preservation.