In the village of Inakadate, Japan, elaborate expanses of “rice paddy art” grace the surrounding landscape. Looking for a way to boost tourism and contribute to the village’s rich culture, town ...

“The murals were excellent pieces worthy of the beginning of Japanese art history,” said Ariga, who was an employee of the Agency for Cultural Affairs when the murals were found 50 years ago.

Yet the project did not end there. Kawazoe called for Japan and Poland to enhance their bonds via mural art. “Exchanges through murals looked very fun,” Kawazoe recalled. His suggestion was to ...