Comment from Mr. Jimmy Onishi

I delineate the image of a runner advancing toward a rainbow; having many images of the city of Osaka in mind, including its history and beautiful landscape such as Osaka Castle, the modern architecture of the Osaka City Central Public Hall, Yodoyabashi, Tsutenkaku and roses of Nakanoshima Park that will be in full bloom in autumn. I also kept in mind the charity colors of the event and more than 30,000 runners in rainbow-colored caps.
I am looking forward to running the race as a Charity Ambassador, as well as having the opportunity to exhibit my original work, drawn specially for this event.

Jimmy Onishi, Artist

■ Date of birth: January 1, 1964

■ Hometown: Osaka

Profile

His real name is Hideaki Onishi. Although he came to the fore as a talent, he started production activities as an artist, taking his cue from a painting he drew on a TV show. In 1996, he retired from show business to become a full-time artist. He has since been engaged in wide-ranging jobs, including designing postal stamps, bank books, CD covers, posters and wine labels, as well as exterior packaging of buses, monorails, automobiles, the world’s largest LNG tanker and public art, such as objects and monuments. As well as Japan, he also creates artwork and has held exhibitions overseas. He has published picture books and put on events to create artwork collaborating with children. Recently, he has been energetically active in collaborating with select shops and renowned brands with his unique style. His work, which reflects a fascination with bright colors and unique composition, is highly esteemed and supported from all quarters.