The March 11^th earthquake and tsunami was a force beyond our imagination.  While images of the aftermath have been seared in our hearts, with time our attention fades.  Yet, it is important that we keep in mind the continued hardships that those affected by the earthquake/tsunami must face each day, and to remember that recovery is only just beginning.

      KIZUNA means bond.  Even more, it is the bonds that tie us to one another. It is a concept with great depth; layers of meaning that have been rekindled for our group of artists through observing the generosity of spirit and care for others, the strength and resilience of those affected by the March 11^th tragedy.  Through their efforts and actions, they have shown us the full measure of KIZUNA, bonds of affinity that have also touched our community here in Brisbane.

       With this exhibition we hope to contribute to the realization of a strong KIZUNA with the people of Japan, with visitors to the show, and within our community of artists.  Each artist’s work(s) explores the layered meanings of KIZUNA in their own way, reflecting variously on questions of identity, place, home, and distance – on the deep connections to Japan stimulated by our experiences of and reactions to the March 11 earthquake/tsunami. 

KIZUNA -Volunteers in alphabetical order

Conny Eba, Hiroaki Eba, Yuko Hattori, Momo Hosking, Tomomi Hoshina, Kazuyo Kashiwagi, Ken Kikkawa, Shinji Ogata,

Miho Phillips, Ai Shah, Yoshihito Takaki, Fukutoshi Ueno, Kenji Uranishi

KIZUNA -Musician

Taka (Guitar) + Yuji (Bass), Dr Zafer (Saz) + Jordan Stamos (Darbuka),

Yomei Nakajima (Shakuhachi), James Lloyd + Lee Tsoubos (Classical Guitar Duo)