The expression on children's faces when they eat is ever so innocent, and most natural in every way, just like the gaze of an herbivore staring off into the distance of a prairie. It's exceptionally interesting when such a child's eyes sparkle.
It's been about three years since I started research on the topic of synesthesia. There are times now and then in our lives when we use our sensory organs to the fullest. I've been wondering if cooperation between our senses could help activate any latent inventiveness inside us. I've conducted empirical research on music that brings colors to mind, and images or landscapes inspired by scent.
As a culmination of my research, I came up with a curriculum for a special program called the "Five Senses School" to support children's potential sensitivities and thinking skills. Fortunately, Principal Ouchi of Takahagi City, Ibaraki Prefecture, provided me with the wonderful opportunity to try this new challenge with 60 elementary school students during their class time. I met Principal Ouchi after the earthquake through Hug Japan's Global Message Relay, a project to send children's drawings abroad. I thank the teachers from my heart for their cooperation.
As the children drew or created wire sculptures while listening to music, their eyes shone brilliantly, full of hope for tomorrow.










