A Future for Japan's Living arts
RINPADO Art & Patronage is a London-based public-interest cultural initiative dedicated to sharing the living arts of Japan through international exchange, education and meaningful cultural encounters.
![[background image] image of traditional japanese decor (for a japanese restaurant)](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6ae7223223a9b69fc3a247e9/6ae7223223a9b69fc3a24889_02_Performing_Arts.png)
MISSION
A living heritage, shared with the world
RINPADO Art & Patronage seeks to build a lasting cultural bridge between Japan and the United Kingdom - widening public engagement, encouraging understanding and supporting the transmission of these traditions to future generations.
Rooted in tradition. Reimagined by innovation though our art direction, curation, production. Sustained by patronage.
Through long-term cultural patronage, collaboration and education, we support the artists and craftspeople who carry these traditions forward, helping Japan’s cultural heritage thrive for generations to come.
THE RINPADO PROGRAMME IN DEVELOPMENT
Living Arts of Japan
Through educational talks, live demonstrations and participatory workshops, theprogramme aims to deepen international understanding.
Curated Exhibitions& Installations
Thoughtfully curated exhibitions bringing Japanese art, kogei and design into dialogue with contemporary creative practice
Artist-led performances & demonstrations
Live performances and demonstrations of Japanese dance, music and living traditions, presented by the artists who preserve and renew them
Public Talks & Cultural Dialogue
Conversations with artists, practitioners and cultural experts exploring the histories, philosophies and contemporary relevance of Japan’s living arts
Participatory learning workshops
Direct engagement with traditional techniques, seasonal aesthetics and cultural knowledge passed between generations
Philosophy
TRADITION, REIMAGINED
CELEBRATING BEAUTY IN ALL ITS FORMS
RINPADO draws inspiration from Japanese aesthetics, the artistic legacy of RINPA, and the visionary spirit of Hon’ami Kōetsu (1558–1637), whose creativity transcended the boundaries of art, craftsmanship and patronage.
Having spent much of my life abroad, working across art, interiors and architecture, I continue to deepen my appreciation of Japanese aesthetics through traditional dance, tea ceremony, etiquette and living arts.
I believe tradition is not merely to be preserved, but to be reimagined. Through RINPADO, I seek to bring together Eastern and Western sensibilities, connecting creative minds across cultures and disciplines.
My aspiration is to create a sanctuary for beauty — a place to encounter authenticity, awaken aesthetic sensibilities and experience beauty anew.
Rooted in tradition. Driven by innovation. Sustained by patronage.
With gratitude for every meaningful encounter.
YURI AKIYAMA
THE POWER OF PATRONAGE
How You Can Support
Where living arts meet patronage
ENQUIRIES