Hi, everyone! I'm Kei Sumiya, a friend of Duncan's. I work for SKKY Design and iTohen, a gallery, bookstore & coffee shop. Osaka is an entertaining city that can provide you with a network that will grow gradually. Enjoy it with FLAG! Here are some places that I recommend:

1. Beyer
Beyer is a shop in Tamatsukuri, which is run by Mr. & Mrs. Umeda. You can find a lot of books there--art, photography, design, picture books and more--which they bought from both home and abroad. There is an exhibition space as well. I really like spending time here reading books and talking with the Umedas while enjoying their hand-dripped coffee and home-made castella.  http://www.beyerbooks-pl.us/  Open: 12:00~20:00 (Closed Tue)

2. Sewing Gallery
Sewing Gallery is in a old wooden dressmaking school constructed in the 1940's and 50's. It's surrounded by lush vegetation--you won't believe that you are in Osaka! Sewing gallery is a wonderful place that reminds me of things that I forget. Though it's a bit far away from central Osaka, it's worth going. Why not have a slow day there!  http://www.sewing-g.com/  Open: 12:00~18:00 (Closed Mon/Tue)

3. Galerie 6c
Galerie 6c is in Kurakuenguchi in Nishinomiya, Hyogo, and you can always find exhibitions & workshops with creators there. It's a comfortable, down-to-earth gallery. While you're there, you can also check out the town of Shukugawa nearby.  http://www.galerie6c.net  Open: 15:00~20:00 (Sat/Sun 11:00~18:00, Closed Mon)

For the next issue, the baton goes to Matsunaga San from Gallery RAKU!