Eri Ishizaki of Art Eriy's

Inspiration for Miyako

The disaster struck when Ms. Ishizaki had come home to Miyako from Tokyo, and she remained in her hometown. At the time, she thought that she shouldn't be wasting the day drawing pictures at such a critical time. But once she scribbled something on the sliding paper doors of her home, which made her family laugh. She realized that she could help the people who were affected by the disaster and make them happy through her illustration skills.

This is when she started making post cards that she drew pictures and words on. Those post cards were well-received by many people. Now, she is currently working on projects like this every day, hoping to provide strength for Miyako.

Cherish human ties

"If the people of Miyako become happier because of our work, that in itself is enough. I hope that it show other young people that you can [draw and make illustrations] in Miyako too.”

On the reconstruction, Ms. Ishizaki says, “Everyone's been working so hard since the disaster, and I think people's wounds are gradually healing as things start to settle down. Although Miyako is known for tourism, I'm worried about the sustainability. Many visitors we've been getting have come all the way to Miyako to support the reconstruction, but this might not last forever. Now it's time for the younger generation to lead the adults. It's not enough to just demand things to happen. I want people to carry out these thoughts.

“I want people to be empowered to make changes in their region."

Profile

Eri Ishizaki
Art Eriy's Illustrator

Originally from Miyako.

She wanted to find a job where she could draw pictures, so after graduating from high school, she went to study illustration and graphic design at a junior college in Yokohama. After she finished school, she continued drawing on the side while working a part-time job in the city.

Currently she has returned to Miyako where she works on post cards, stickers, and children's books under the name O-kaeri.