Yamagata Visual Arts Festival

Hiro Yamagata, a Japanese artist who resides in Los Angeles, has launched a five-year, worldwide visual arts program for the disabled. The first Yamagata International Visual Arts Festival will be Nov. 13-15 in Tokyo.

Organized in conjunction with Very Special Arts, an international association which provides arts programs for disabled people, the three-day festival is supported by a $6-million donation from Yamagata. Artists of all ages who have physical and mental disabilities are expected to gather in Tokyo to showcase their talents. The highlight of the event will be an exhibition featuring artworks selected by Very Special Arts affiliates in 55 countries.

Subsequent festivals will be held in Paris, Washington, Venice and Sydney. Information: (800) 933-8721.