About

Creativity begins with an idea — seeing things differently.

Our purpose is exploring the creative process — how a new idea is born into the arts, sciences, and philosophy. There is no restriction for creative activity. Imagination has complete freedom. Supporting and promoting freedom in creativity is our mission.

Established
in 1998
Kaneko History

Our History

Founded in 1998 by international artist Jun Kaneko and his wife Ree, KANEKO is located in three turn-of-the-century warehouses in the Old Market District of Omaha, Nebraska. Established as an “Open Space for Your Mind,” KANEKO is an organization where creativity is explored, celebrated, and nurtured across all disciplines. From renowned artists and composers to local performers, designers, scientists, and physicians, KANEKO has hosted exhibitions, performances, and public events that explore how we express, question, and contribute to the world around us.

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Jun Kaneko

Jun Kaneko was born in Nagoya, Japan, in 1942. He studied painting with Satoshi Ogawa during his adolescence. He came to the United States in 1963 to continue his studies at Chouinard Institute of Art when his introduction to Fred Marer drew him to sculptural ceramics. He proceeded to study with Peter Voulkos, Paul Soldner, and Jerry Rothman in California during the time now defined as The Contemporary Ceramics Movement in America. The following decade, Kaneko taught at some of the nation’s leading art schools, including Scripps College, Rhode Island School of Design, and Cranbrook Academy of Art.

Jun Kaneko Studio  
Jun Kaneko
Located in Old Market

Located in the Old Market

We are located in three turn-of-the-century warehouses in the historic Old Market District in downtown Omaha, Nebraska. Public street, meter, and garage parking is available on surrounding blocks throughout the Old Market.

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FAQ's

Can I have my wedding at KANEKO?

Our policy on space rentals is guided by our belief that we belong to the larger Omaha community; therefore, we reserve our space for community organizations, educational institutions, and civic and business events.  We do not provide space for personal events such as weddings, bar or bat mitzvahs, or private birthday parties.

Where should I park?

Since we do not have our own parking lot, we suggest public street, meter, and garage parking throughout the Old Market. Below are a list of options!

  • Public parking garage with entry on Jackson St., east of 11th St.
  • Metered parking on streets around KANEKO.
  • Limited FREE street parking on Leavenworth St., east of 11st St.
  • Bike racks at KANEKO Library (west) entrance.
  • Carpooling, rideshares and Omaha Metro bus usage are also encouraged! 

What are your hours?

Normal Gallery Hours
Thursday – Saturday 1—7 pm
Sunday 1—6 pm

Office Hours
Monday – Friday 9 am—5 pm

How much is a membership?

CORE
Student /Educator/Artist// $30
Individual // $50
Family // $80

FRIENDS
Collaborator // $250 – $499
Facilitator // $500 – $999
Connector // $1,000 – $2,499

CREATIVE CIRCLE
Patron // $2,500 – $4,999
Benefactor // $5,000 – $9,999
Insider // $10,000 +

Learn more about member benefits here!

I am an artist/performer. How do I have my work featured at KANEKO?

Our exhibits are curated by a Creative Council composed of national leaders in the arts, sciences, business, and technology and a committee of local community leaders. Our programming is created by KANEKO staff members in collaboration with featured artists or other community members. If you are interested in proposing an idea or sharing your work, please email info@thekaneko.org. Due to the large volume of proposals we receive, we are not able to reply to all inquiries.

I would like to contact Jun Kaneko’s studio. How do I go about doing that?

Phone 402.341.4523
Fax 402.341.0309
info@junkaneko.com

Does KANEKO give tours?

We would love to show you around! We welcome tour groups regularly from regional schools, community organizations, and more. If you would like to make a reservation for your group, please contact us at info@thekaneko.org.

Can I take photos inside KANEKO?

We welcome photography for non commercial use only. Please respect the art and the artist by turning off the flash. We do not allow professional DSLR cameras. For questions concerning commercial photography, please contact us at info@thekaneko.org or 402.341.3800