Heralbony is more than just a company, it's a movement challenging the societal perception of disability through the power of art. Founded by Japanese twins Takaya and Fumito Matsuda, the company was inspired by their older brother, Shota, who has severe intellectual disabilities and autism. Witnessing firsthand the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities, the Matsuda brothers set out to create a world where talent and creativity take center stage, regardless of differences.

Their mission is clear: to "Radiate Your Color" and foster a society that embraces diversity through artistic expression. In this interview, we sat down with Marie Oshioka, CEO of Heralbony Europe, we explored Heralbony’s journey, its investment and impact in Paris Region, and how the company is breaking boundaries to make the art world more inclusive.

Could you tell us about Heralbony’s journey and the inspiration behind its creation?

HERALBONY was founded by the Matsuda twins, Takaya and Fumito, inspired by their older brother Shota who lives with severe intellectual disabilities and autism. Witnessing the societal prejudices faced by Shota, they envisioned a world free from such biases. Their discovery of exceptional art by individuals with disabilities led to the creation of HERALBONY, aiming to showcase the talents of artists with disabilities worldwide and advocate for a new form of welfare through art.

What is the significance of the name "Heralbony," and how does it reflect your mission?

The name "HERALBONY" originated from a word frequently written by Shota in his notebook together with numerous other global brand names. Its meaning is unknown. This unique name symbolizes the company's mission to "Radiate Your Color," celebrating the individuality and talents of artists with disabilities, and creating opportunities for their active social participation.

Inclusion is at the heart of Heralbony’s mission. How does your company foster inclusion and amplify the voices of underrepresented communities?

HERALBONY promotes inclusion by commercializing the art of artists with disabilities through companies seeking unique arts to color their brand promotion and merchandise of the company’s original HERALBONY brand initiatives. It increases public encounters with these beautiful artworks to challenge perceptions of disability. Additionally, our label ROUTINE RECORDS transforms everyday sounds made by individuals with disabilities into music, introducing a new artistic form to the global audience.

Can you share examples of projects or initiatives that showcase your commitment to inclusion and social responsibility, that took place in Paris Region?

In Paris Region, HERALBONY has organized exhibitions featuring works by artists with disabilities, facilitating interactions among artists, media, designers, individuals with disabilities, and the general public. These exhibitions aim to deepen the appreciation and understanding of artists with disabilities' contributions to society. HERALBONY will participate in business conferences to reach enterprises in Europe to expand the usage of their artwork in this Region.

What motivated you to expand Heralbony to Paris Region?

HERALBONY's expansion to Paris Region was directly motivated by winning the LVMH Innovation Award. This accolade, a first for a Japanese company, highlighted the Region's deep commitment to art and inclusivity, aligning perfectly with HERALBONY's mission. We also recognized Paris as a global hub for art and fashion that offers significant opportunities for artists with disabilities.

How does Paris Region support your mission and align with your company’s goals?

Paris Region fundamentally resonates with HERALBONY's mission, reflecting a culture that venerates humanity and inclusivity. This alignment is supported by the Region's strong focus on arts and inclusivity, making it an ideal location for HERALBONY's operations.

Were there specific aspects of Paris Region’s ecosystem, such as its focus on inclusivity or its art scene, that appealed to you?

Paris Region's ecosystem is particularly appealing due to its vibrant art scene and cultural diversity. Facilities such as Station F, which actively supports a dynamic community of startups, were crucial in HERALBONY's decision to expand there, providing a conducive environment for international startups. HERALBONY started its acceleration program last fall in La Maison des Startups, LVMH’s startups’ accelerator based in Station F, further reinforcing its commitment to growing within this thriving innovation hub.

How did Choose Paris Region assist you in settling and establishing your business here?

Choose Paris Region facilitated HERALBONY’s establishment by providing essential business setup information and networking opportunities. They are also instrumental in brokering collaborations with local companies to foster business growth.

Were there any specific services or insights from Choose Paris Region that made a significant difference in your expansion process?

Choose Paris Region's support included assistance with legal requirements, and providing information on local business networks. These services played an important role in HERALBONY's smooth transition and successful integration into the local market.

What advice would you give to other startups considering expanding to Paris Region?

Startups looking to expand to Paris Region should thoroughly understand the local business environment and culture. Especially, knowing the key players and people there is critical. Investigating programs like Station F's residency is recommended to find suitable local partners, which are crucial for successful expansion.

What message would you like to share with the international business community about the importance of inclusion and art in fostering innovation?

Art inherently transcends borders and does not require language, making it universally accessible. Inclusion and art are vital drivers of innovation, where diverse perspectives and creativity are crucial for generating new ideas and solutions, leading to a richer, sustainable future.

What are your future goals for Heralbony in Paris Region and beyond?

HERALBONY aims to create a society where every one of us is respected, regardless of disabilities, eliminating the mental border between the people. HERALBONY plans to expand its collaborations globally, enhance its brand presence, and increase the international recognition and influence of artists with disabilities. We are committed to actively recruiting artists from various countries and visiting welfare facilities to encourage participation.