Born in Odate City (Akita, Japan) in 1963. Professor at Tokyo University of the Arts (Department of Painting). A socially aware artist pushing forth diverse art projects with focus on "art x community x industry". Represented Japan in the 49th Venice Biennial (2002). Has supervised over the artist initiative 'Command N' since 1998. Has developed numerous revitalization art projects in Toyama, Akita, and other Japanese localities. Through the project space 'KANDADA' (2005-2009), he launched the artist-lead alternative art centre '3331 Arts Chiyoda' (Chiyoda City, Tokyo / Akihabara) in June 2010. Publications include Art and Education (1997). Received the Art Encouragement Prize in 2010. Developed the earthquake reconstruction assistance project 'Wawa Project' in 2010. Began 'TRANS ARTS TOKYO' in 2012, cultivating creativity in community within the heart of the city of Kanda, Tokyo.