Matsuda Kumiko -

In addition to her acting career, Matsuda Kumiko is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly in the area of education and children's welfare. She has been involved in various charity projects and has served as a goodwill ambassador for several organizations.

Her new work defies categorization. She calls it “Kage-e no Nikki” — “Shadow Image Diary.” She uses sumi ink, but she mixes it with crushed charcoal from the Iya Valley, powdered rust from the Nakano apartment’s fire escape, and soil from her grandmother’s grave. She paints on abandoned fusama (sliding doors), on old kimonos, on the backs of butoh flyers she never threw away. matsuda kumiko