In celebration of the Tokyo Olympics we would like to introduce you to the “Omotenashi” Schools Project 2021.    

So what does the word Omotenashi (pronounced: ohmo-te-nashe) mean? Most non Japanese people had never heard of the word before Christel Takigawa, the bid ambassador for the 2021 Games, used it in her speech to the International Olympic Committee during the final stage of Tokyo’s successful bid.    

Simply the word means ‘Warm Hospitality’ but on delving deeper this word means far, far more. It is beyond literal explanation. It is the random act of showing behaviour that is respectful and considerate of others regardless of what generation a person might be from. It is Japan’s special brand of genuine kindness. Omotenashi is performed without expectation of anything in return. In other words being sincere while doing something nice for others.  

We are inviting schools to participate across the world in this art project. To research the word Omotenashi and then to create their understanding in art form.

Thank you already to the Nagoya International School who would like to collaborate at one of their future Kidzuna community outreach events.

https://www.nisjapan.net/community/kidzuna  

We welcome those who wish to collaborate as then we can reach a greater number of schools.                                

Schools’ International Peace Quilt
Registered Charity no. EW02300