‘What is in your hand’ : KIYOMI TANIGAWA
-a Connecting Project-
This project is dedicated to forging a community rooted in our individual stories and the unique gifts we hold in our hands. We are beginning this journey with six individuals, with the hope that these connections will grow to form a truly creative and genuine community: H+
STORY OF
KIYOMI TANIGAWA
Story by Hanna Yoo
Cinematography by Marlo Irani
Photography by Tessa Belle Dillman
AD - Aneli Garrido
PA - Asia Smudde Tom, Ella Belle Warner
Memory of Kiyomi
In 2024, we created our space shaped by our past and childhood memories, and presented it under the name “Passage.”
Through the preparation of the show, we shared our life journeys—our experiences, memories, tears, and joy. Learning about her time and her perspective on life—her sense of acceptance and spirit of exploration—became a deep inspiration to me.
I love her Miso Bombs, which connect her to her mother. The scents of her miso, and the warmth it carries make me feel a sense of care and quiet consolation. It feels as though someone is gently telling me, “It’s OK. It will all pass.”
It is such a meaningful experience to meet someone who truly respects differences and is able to build beautiful layers through their creativity. I’m grateful to share this path ahead together.
—Hanna Yoo
Cinematography by Marlo Irani
Exhibition “PASSAGE”, 2024
Collaboration by Hanna Yoo, Kiyomi Tanigawa, and So Jung Lee, filmed by Henry Lu
Conversation with KIYOMI :
Question.
PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF — WHO YOU ARE, WHAT YOU DO, AND WHAT CURRENTLY INSPIRES OR DRIVES YOU.
KIYOMI: My name is Kiyomi Tanigawa. I’m a multidisciplinary designer and the founder of Brooklyn MISOMARU.
I work across food, design, and cultural experiences. Living away from Japan deeply shaped how I see my own culture.
Question.
WHAT DOES “MISOMARU” MEAN TO YOU? — WHAT IS YOUR MESSAGE FROM WHAT YOU CREATE, AND WHERE IS YOUR PASSION IN IT?
KIYOMI: What MISOMARU means to me. MISOMARU is one of the ways I express my exploration.
Food is simply one of the mediums I work with - a doorway into something deeper. Through my work, I explore how culture can continue to live and evolve here in NY.
For me, its a way to reconnect with myself and rediscover the wisdom within Japanese culture- and to share that journey with others.
Question.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CONNECTION WITH HANNA?
KIYOMI: Hanna and I work in different mediums, but I feel a resonance in how we approach our work.
Her work feels thoughtful and grounded, and it's been very inspiring to me.
Her work reminds me to stay present in what I create.
Question.
WHAT DO YOU CARRY IN YOUR HAND NOW?
KIYOMI: What I carry in my hand right now is a sense of curiosity - the desire to keep exploring.
To explore more of Kiyomi Tanigawa’s work and connect with her, please visit www.brooklynmisomaru.com