OHIO Eastern Art Gallery to feature Japanese artist Hiromi Katayama in Creative Confluence exhibition

The Ohio University Eastern Art Gallery will present Creative Confluence, an exhibition featuring traditional Japanese paintings by Hiromi Katayama, Ohio University fine arts instructor.

The exhibition will be on display Nov. 9 through Dec. 3, 2026, offering students and community members an opportunity to experience the beauty and cultural significance of Japanese art.

A native of Ibaraki, Japan, Katayama specializes in Nihonga, a traditional Japanese painting style that uses natural pigments, mineral-based materials and time-honored techniques. Drawing inspiration from nature and her Japanese cultural heritage, her work reflects a deep appreciation for the relationship between the natural world, cultural traditions and artistic expression.

Through her paintings, Katayama seeks not only to preserve an important Japanese art form but also to introduce audiences around the world to its history, techniques and cultural significance.

"Nihonga is one of the dying cultural art forms in Japan, that even few Japanese know about today. It is my passion to continue this traditional practice and educate others around the world," Katayama said.

For Ohio University Eastern, the exhibition represents an opportunity to connect the campus and surrounding community with artistic traditions and perspectives from around the world.

"Art has the unique ability to bring people together, introduce us to different cultures and encourage us to see the world through new perspectives," said Jennifer Kellner-Muscar, dean of campus and community engagement. "Having the opportunity to showcase Professor Katayama's work in our gallery is especially meaningful because it allows our students and community members to experience an extraordinary artistic tradition right here on our campus. Exhibitions like Creative Confluence reflect our commitment to making the arts accessible and creating opportunities for cultural enrichment throughout our region."

The community is invited to attend a special artist reception on Monday, Nov. 16, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The reception will provide an opportunity to view Katayama's work and learn more about her artistic practice.

Creative Confluence is free and open to the public. The Ohio University Eastern Art Gallery is located on the second floor of Shannon Hall, Room 202, at 45425 National Road W. in St. Clairsville. Regular gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

To learn more about Katayama and her work, visit www.hiromikatayama.com.