Heralbony Founders Aim for Social Change Through Art by People with Disabilities
This interview features Takaya and Fumito Matsuda, twin co-representatives of Heralbony, a company gaining international attention for commercializing art created by individuals with intellectual disabilities. The brothers launched the venture inspired by their older brother Shota, who has autism and severe intellectual disability, aiming to challenge societal prejudices and change how people perceive differences. The concept originated in 2015 when Takaya visited the Runbini Art Museum in Iwate Prefecture. Struck by the powerful artistic expression stemming from the artists' obsessions, he partnered with his brother to create high-quality products, starting with silk ties, to honor the work rather than merely sell it. Heralbony’s designs have since been featured in Japan Airlines business class amenity kits and on wrapping vehicles nationwide. The founders express that their ultimate goal is not just business success, but creating a society where their mother can feel at peace, knowing her children are accepted and valued. The article highlights their journey from Tohoku to establishing a brand that bridges art, commerce, and social advocacy.
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Heralbony Founders Aim for Social Change Through Art by People with Disabilities
This interview features Takaya and Fumito Matsuda, twin co-representatives of Heralbony, a company gaining international attention for commercializing art created by individuals with intellectual disabilities. The brothers launched the venture inspired by their older brother Shota, who has autism and severe intellectual disability, aiming to challenge societal prejudices and change how people perceive differences. The concept originated in 2015 when Takaya visited the Runbini Art Museum in Iwate Prefecture. Struck by the powerful artistic expression stemming from the artists' obsessions, he partnered with his brother to create high-quality products, starting with silk ties, to honor the work rather than merely sell it. Heralbony’s designs have since been featured in Japan Airlines business class amenity kits and on wrapping vehicles nationwide. The founders express that their ultimate goal is not just business success, but creating a society where their mother can feel at peace, knowing her children are accepted and valued. The article highlights their journey from Tohoku to establishing a brand that bridges art, commerce, and social advocacy.
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