KANEKO, Omaha

KANEKO is a nonprofit cultural organization devoted to exploring creativity across art, design, science, technology, philosophy, and other disciplines. It was founded in 1998 by internationally recognized artist Jun Kaneko and his wife, Ree Kaneko, as an “Open Space for Your Mind.” The organization occupies three turn-of-the-20th-century warehouse buildings formerly associated with the Fairmont Creamery and later the Cornbelt Automotive Warehouse. After extensive renovation, KANEKO began public programming in 2009 and officially opened its galleries in 2010.

The center’s large industrial spaces are used for changing exhibitions, installations, performances, and public programs rather than displaying a permanent museum collection. Exhibitions feature sculpture, painting, glass, fiber art, architecture, design, digital media, and multidisciplinary projects that take advantage of the buildings’ high ceilings and flexible layouts. KANEKO has welcomed artists, writers, musicians, composers, designers, scientists, physicians, and other creative professionals, reflecting its focus on exploring how ideas develop across different fields. Current exhibitions and programs change throughout the year. Education is central to KANEKO’s mission. Programs include Creative Camps, artist-led workshops, exhibition tours, student projects, talks, and initiatives such as Creative Catalysts, connecting young people with working artists through hands-on activities.

The KANEKO Creativity Library offers books, periodicals, video resources, and technology focused on creativity. Rather than simply presenting finished artworks, the organization encourages visitors to explore the creative process itself and examine how ideas are formed, tested, refined, and developed across artistic, scientific, and intellectual disciplines.