• Journal

 

We moved to Los Angeles in 2016—a Canadian-Japanese couple—and discovered Nonaka-Hill Gallery not long after. There are countless galleries in LA, but few as welcoming as this one, where Rodney and Taka make each visitor feel at home, sharing the stories behind every piece with such care. Their artists—whether iconic, emerging, or undiscovered—are mostly Japanese or Japanese expats, with an occasional American name like Sterling Ruby.

 

Our shared love for Japanese art deepened our relationship, and with each visit, we found connection in the space. When we proposed collaborating with OEM, it felt entirely natural; while others might question why a “new drugstore” and a gallery would partner, for us it couldn’t make more sense. Health isn’t only what you put on or in your body but also your environment—it involves every sense, each integral to mental well-being.

 

 

When we invited Nonaka-Hill to interpret “Care,” they thoughtfully selected Megumi Shinozaki, Keita Matsunaga, Takuro Tamayama, and Jiro Nagase. Keita’s Palm 掌 holds our incense, his Cocoon 繭 acts as a diffuser, Jiro’s plate_10mm fits our balms and precious trinkets, Megumi’s dried flowers brighten the space with subtle scent and beauty, and Takuro’s 2 Shapes evoke an elder supported by a younger figure. Each piece brings the theme to life through sensory, visual, and emotional expressions of care.

 

It’s an honor to be part of Rodney and Taka’s intimate world, showcasing artists we’ve admired for so long. To everyone who joined us on opening night, thank you—and to those still planning to visit, we hope you experience the “Care” radiating from every piece in the gallery.