This place is a diamond not to be driven past or overlooked if you like vivid artwork. It's brilliant and free

We set off from Sapporo for this place on a family trip. Apparently, it used to be a school building. Just the building itself feels nostalgic. That day, there was a reception desk when we entered, but no one was there. As we walked around looking for someone, we sensed someone was inside. His wife came out and went around turning on the lights for us. Apparently, their daughter usually handles reception. This was my first time seeing 要さん's work, and it was breathtaking!! The delicacy, the use of color, the power—everything made my heart feel excited✨ 要さん is currently unwell, and apparently he is doing his best to rest so that he can somehow resume the painting he is working on. Lots of works are displayed in each classroom of the school building. There's so much to see. Our family went around 2 times✨ We chatted with his wife for a while. She was friendly and kind, and even when our kindergarten-age child wandered around, she said things like, 'It's fine! As long as they don't get hurt,' and 'Our grandchildren play hide-and-seek when they come here too!' Thank you for being so considerate🙏 She also told us lots about 要さん's upbringing and his feelings about painting✨ Cute ornaments and plush mascots made by their daughter are sold beside reception. My daughter and son liked them and bought some. We'll stop by かなめ美術館 again as a family!!

We passed this place on a driving trip. Originally, we only planned to stop briefly for a rest, but after going inside to look around, we were pleasantly surprised. The museum houses works by Hokkaido artist 高橋要. His paintings are very diverse, with some even presented in three-dimensional forms, and rich in color. Although I don't understand art, I was still absorbed in looking at them. What's more, admission is free. After we entered, an elderly lady enthusiastically gave us a tour. Although we don't understand Japanese, we could still feel her warmth. It's a very worthwhile attraction to visit.

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This museum exhibits and houses works by Hokkaido painter 高橋要. A closed elementary school building is used as both a gallery and a studio, blending a sense of nostalgia with art for a wonderfully fresh experience. 高橋要's works span a very broad range, from realism to abstraction, oils to watercolors, and two-dimensional to three-dimensional pieces. With so many works on display (more than 300!), there's plenty worth seeing. Children and adults alike can enjoy it without knowing about art. The enormous work in progress that occupies the entire gymnasium is a must-see. Best of all, admission is free. It's easy to access, too, and a recommended place.

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Every time I drove past, I was curious about the sign saying '68 years as a professional painter'. I'm so glad I went! He's such a prolific painter. His wife, who was at the entrance, told me he was self-taught. Amazing. The work in the gymnasium (?) said it was scheduled for completion in 2029, so a return visit in 2029 is decided.

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