The Ken Iwata Mother & Child Museum is located in the yard of the former Omishima-cho Risshuho Elementary school (currently: Omishima Furusato Ikoi no Ie).

On display at this art museum that opened in the summer of 2011, you will find numerous sculptures by Ken Iwata, an artist who specializes in warmth-filled works featuring a mother and a child.

Did you notice the sculpture in front of the entrance?

Sound at this round-shaped, semi-openair museum resonates easily, so much so that distant whispers feel as though are being uttered right next to you!

Inline with its concept of “enjoying artworks together with Omishima’s nature”, the museum allows visitors to absorb the works while hearing and feeling the sounds and aromas of nature.

Composed for the museum by Akira Senju and performed on violin by Mariko Senju, a lovely piece of music is played several times throughout the morning and evening.

The way I recommend enjoying the artworks is to first come and see them during the morning, and then once again in the evening. With the exception of a few pieces, visitors are encouraged to touch and feel the works. Along with the changes in Omishima’s nature, sounds and light, the expressions of the sculptures look different depending on the time of day.

How about going for an art walk this spring? 

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The Ken Iwata Mother & Child Museum

Location: 5208-2 Munagata, Omishima-cho, Imabari city, Ehime prefecture
Open: 9-17
Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a public holiday, closed the following day), From December 27 thru December 31
Admission: Regular: JPY300, Students: JPY150, Groups: (20+ people) 20% discount
Parking: 5 vehicles (toll-free)
http://museum.city.imabari.ehime.jp/iwata/ (Japanese)

Setouchi Finder Photo-writer: Futoshi Hineno