Creativity Begins with an Idea.

Nothing exists by itself; everything has something next to it. Something changes drastically depending on what is next to it.

– Jun Kaneko

The exploration and celebration of the creative process are at the core of the KANEKO mission. To seek out the challenges of artistry and to discuss the diversity of creative thought in philanthropy, education, and the sciences is what connects all KANEKO programs, exhibitions, and partnerships. This is the vein that passes through the diverse offerings of KANEKO, containing the unique and irreplaceable voice of one of the greatest artisans in history.

To influence is to enact change; to sway the course of history and challenge the boundaries of what was once believed to be limitations. Jun Kaneko has forged this path for countless artists, educators, and creative thinkers around the world, and in the founding of KANEKO has created for the Omaha Community a space in which to be inspired and to enact change.

Through the exploration of physical space, artistic themes, history, and experience, the season of INFLUENCE will examine the history of change at KANEKO while celebrating the future of the organization which has become a driving force for inclusion and diversity of creative thought in Omaha.

The artists and collaborators participating in INFLUENCE will illustrate the importance of the creative process, visually and emotionally impact visitors, and present a unique vision that is the hallmark of KANEKO exhibitions. The INFLUENCE season displays the creative work of KANEKO founder and Japanese ceramist Jun Kaneko and how his work, teaching, and creative philosophy has impacted the Omaha community and beyond.

INFLUENCE explores the results of living and collaborating within a creative environment, showcasing the history of the creative community in Omaha and how the path of creative individuals impacts the lives of others.

The season will highlight projects by previous KANEKO program partners and explore how their work has changed since their creative debut at KANEKO. Their stories, combined with the stories of previous employees and apprentices of the Jun Kaneko Studio, the Bemis Residency Program, and the collective visiting audience of the Omaha community, will showcase the overarching narrative of creative inclusion that KANEKO has assisted in facilitating over the ten-year history of the organization.