Friends of Jinny

Lamps: 10 lamps photographed
Artists: 40
On view: 30 days
With: NININI·NI
Opening: 18 Apr 2026 · 18:00

Statement

Friends of Jinny pairs 40 international illustrators with 40 locals from Jingumae 2-chome, Shibuya, creating collaborative artworks inspired by stories from our neighborhood. Exhibited at Jinny Street Gallery throughout its streets, the works merge personal narratives with the community’s unique spirit, connecting people across borders.

Jingumae Ni-chome is a quiet neighborhood tucked just behind the bustling streets of Harajuku, Shibuya.

Walking through Jingumae-nichome feels like stepping into a close-knit community where people are friendly, familiar, and know one another.

It’s a calm and welcoming place to stroll, connect, and feel at ease.

For all of us at Jinny Street Gallery, coming from different parts of the world, “Jingumae Ni-chome” has become our Japanese home away from home – a place we return to and feel we belong.

What is “Friends of Jinny”?

A total of 40 international illustrators from around the world were selected through an online open call and paired with 40 members of the local community. Like pen pals, they have exchanged stories and shared insights into their lives and everyday experiences.

Inspired by these conversations, the artists create illustrations in their own unique styles and perspectives. Each artwork becomes a small, portrait-like story, shaped by the overlapping narratives and emotions of a local resident and an artist living far away.