Iwano developed malignant lymphoma at the age of 19, and set out on a path of exploration into potential modes of expression to relate the sensation of being alive. Then he saw the fireworks. Fireworks inspire a high level of freedom in interpretation, and have the power to touch the heart in everyone. Iwano’s goal in creating his work is to fan this emotion and enthusiasm for fireworks as a way to enhance everyone’s strength to live, as well as to pass on the fireworks’ traditional culture to all future generations. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Videography from Tokyo Polytechnic University, and an MBA from Doshisha University. Currently he is the director of Marutamaya Co., Ltd.