MIYAWAKI has raised miniatures and models, which Japan has excelled in making, into an art. It was done not only through his high technology, but by adding the creative liberty of an original molder and even giving the products his own name. He has also established a new field of molding expression by making 3D figures of characters of cartoons and animation and has nurtured them into one of the representative arts of Japan. Although these figures are usually very cheap products called "Shokugan" ― originally a free gift coming with food or candies, sold at convenience stores, they keep the tradition of Japanese artistic handcrafts with bold figures and high quality. Together with his son, Shuichi, he has enchanted the world simply by the appeal of his products. MIYAWAKI Osamu, and his contribution to the development of a new field of Japanese media arts is significant.

Endless list to create

There is an endless amount of things to create. I would like to express my appreciation for being awarded the Special Achievement Prize of the Japan Media Arts Festival. I am especially delighted to receive this award as it is to be given not only to myself but also to KAIYODO and its staff. I have devoted my life to creating things and feel blessed that the figures we have manufactured are receiving recognition as a new culture or art of Japan.

I have always worked on jobs related to hobbies and have a strong belief that anyone with hands, or 5 fingers can create things. To that end, KAIYODO has offered some space and time, however little, for creation.

Once we provide young people with time and a place for creation, don't you think a culture of creating by hand among Japanese people will grow and continue to grow? I believe so, because there is an endless amount of things to create.