Atelier Daisy (Atelier Daisy) 〜 Nurturing children’s ability to express themselves through art and English

featured image image

Interview with Fukushima Hiroko

Fukushima Hiroko
Fukushima Hiroko

We spoke with Fukushima Hiroko, who runs Atelier Daisy.

Why did you call it an “atelier” rather than a “classroom”?

Fukushima (name omitted)

When people hear “classroom,” they tend to picture a teacher instructing students.
But here, I want children to express themselves freely.

I want to value the process more than completing the artwork.
I also hope parents will watch their children as they work and enjoy growing together as a family.

Image courtesy of: Atelier Daisy
Image courtesy of: Atelier Daisy

What kind of experience would you like the children to have?

Fukushima

I want them to value thinking for themselves and making their own decisions.

The satisfaction and sense of accomplishment that come from seeing something through to the end build great confidence.
Failure is an important experience, too, and they can always start over on a new piece.

I speak to them in English during activities, but I’d be happy if they could encounter English naturally as a “fun experience,” rather than as study.

Child preparing paints

Could you share an episode that has stayed with you?

Fukushima

At first, one child couldn’t leave their parent’s side and left almost all of the art-making to their parent.

But over time, they gradually began working on their own, and eventually they were able to confidently create a piece by themselves.

I was deeply moved when I saw how the child had grown more confident and become more flexible in their thinking.

Paints and brushes

What kinds of families would you recommend it to?

Fukushima

Children who are already studying English can use it as a place to practice expressing themselves.

It’s also a great fit for children who enjoy drawing or making things, and for families who want to nurture creativity and self-esteem through art.

Children who are shy around new people or unfamiliar places are welcome, too. The small-group setting and the chance for parents and children to enjoy the activities together are also appealing.

I hope anyone who wants to tell children, “It’s okay to be different” and “It’s okay to be free” will come visit.

Free time

Finally, do you have a message for our readers?

Fukushima

Atelier Daisy is a place that encourages children’s desire to “give it a try” through art and English.

Rather than focusing on whether they do it well, we value having fun. Please feel free to come by.

After creating art together as parent and child

Child showing off their artwork

Atelier Daisy is an atelier where children can express themselves freely and enjoy hands-on experiences at their own pace.

When my children visited for the first time, they were a little nervous, but their curiosity and desire to make something came out, and they enjoyed creating.
The satisfied smiles on their faces when they finished their artwork made a strong impression.

Fukushima gently encourages children, cherishing their desire to “give it a try.”

Why not visit Atelier Daisy and enjoy expressing yourselves together as a family?

Atelier Daisy Information

Exterior of Atelier Daisy
NameAtelier Daisy
Address601-2 Chayamachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, inside C-Platz Chacha
ContactNone
ParkingAvailable
Hours10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
ClosedIrregular holidays
Check Instagram for details.
Payment methods
  • Cash
WebsiteAtelier Daisy

Get handpicked articles from Kurashiki Tocotoco on LINE

Get handpicked articles from Kurashiki Tocotoco on LINE
Citizen writer who wrote this article
Avatar image
Rieko

Completed the 2024 Writers’ Workshop.
Moved to Kurashiki City in 2017 after getting married, and currently lives in Okayama City.
A mother of two who loves reading, picture books, and coffee.
She enjoys visiting places that catch her interest and listening to the stories of the people she meets there.
Through her reporting, she will carefully share the thoughts of the people she meets and the charms of the local area.

See other citizen writers →

Partnership Agreements

Discover the Region

Discover the Takahashi River Basin