25th Anniversary Collaboration
with HERALBONY – Neck Strap
The Encounter Between APU and HERALBONY
As APU celebrates its 25th anniversary, we have adopted the theme of “Leap Beyond Global” to further advance our commitment to diversity & inclusion (D&I), aiming to leap beyond conventional notions of globalization.
As part of this initiative, APU is launching a commemorative collaboration with HERALBONY, a creative company whose mission is “Radiate Your Colors.”
HERALBONY works with artists with disabilities to transform perceptions of disability and create new cultural values by bringing their unique expressions into society. APU deeply resonates with HERALBONY’s vision of creating a society that sees “differences” as value.
Throughout this anniversary year, APU and HERALBONY will collaborate in various forms. The first initiative is the creation of a commemorative neck strap featuring artwork by Fumie Shimaoka, a contracted artist with HERALBONY.
The Encounter Between APU and Fumie Shimaoka
Fumie Shimaoka’s artwork, composed of small circles and cells intricately connected, reflects a spirit of rising to the challenge and persevering. APU, which supports lifelong learners who persistently pursue growth, strongly identifies with the essence of her artistic expression. The way her diverse dots and lines come together to form a unified space mirrors the vibrant and diverse community of students that make up the APU campus.
ArtistFumie Shimaoka
Fumie Shimaoka loves hands-on activities like origami, Japanese calligraphy, and knitting. After a remarkable recovery from acute hydrops due to keratoconus, she started creating line art using water-based pens. Fumie meticulously combines tiny circles and shapes to express her favorite things and feelings. Originally using monochrome, her art style has since expanded to include more colors and forms, evolving into her distinct current style.
About HERALBONY Co., Ltd.
HERALBONY is a creative company that works with artists with disabilities. We craft unique brand experiences through art and storytelling, bringing inclusivity into business. By showcasing their unique expressions and sharing their narratives, we aim to change perceptions of disability and build a society where every 'difference' is valued.
Managing a collection of over 2,000 artworks by neurodiverse artists, we ensure fair royalties and foster a sustainable business model. Our in-house brand, HERALBONY, produces high-quality products infused with artistry and craftsmanship. Additionally, we collaborate with companies to co-create inclusive experiences and creative projects.
We also organize the HERALBONY Art Prize, an international award recognizing outstanding artists with disabilities. In July 2024, we established HERALBONY EUROPE in Paris—our first overseas subsidiary—to further expand our vision on a global scale.
Corporate Website : https://www.heralbony.jp/en
In the year 2025, APU celebrates the first 25 years since its foundation.
Founded in April 2000, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) is proud to celebrate its silver jubilee.
Discover APU’s 25-year history and its vision for the future on our website.
Click here for the APU 25th Anniversary Web Page.
