Drew McManus

World Bonsai Day: A Legacy of Peace and Friendship

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[twocol_one]For most, the mention of bonsai calls to mind images of whimsical, miniature trees. While this is, in essence, true, the art of bonsai is much more than just a fun hobby. In caring for a bonsai tree, even a casual bonsai enthusiast learns not only technique and horticultural science, but also about the beauty of nature. Caring for a living thing whose life span exceeds our own is a humbling lesson in compassion and respect for life. Consider the fact that a 390-year-old bonsai survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and is now housed …

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Membership Has Its Privileges—Join Today!

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Morikami membership is about more than belonging to our family—it’s about support! When you purchase a Morikami membership, you are helping us carry out our mission to provide authentic Japanese cultural experiences that entertain, educate, and inspire. In other words, we couldn’t do all that we do without the support of our valued members. However, this isn’t a one-way street! We take care of our members, too. If you haven’t joined already, take a look at the various perks that Morikami members can look forward to:[divider_flat][divider_flat] [twocol_one] Unlimited admission to the museum and gardens* That’s …

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Hatsume Fair 2016: The Best Ever?

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#TBT to that time we all came out to Morikami for Hatsume Fair 2016 and had a blast! Now, maybe you guys can settle the argument once and for all, but we’re convinced it was the best Hatsume Fair yet! Between the incredible turnout, the delicious Japanese eats, and a jam-packed entertainment schedule, there was something for everyone to love! Here are our top 10 picks for what made Hatsume Fair 2016 stand out: #10 – We kept it cool. ?       #9 – Anime culture took over the …

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When Cultures Meld: A Q&A with Horishiki on Tattoos, Cultures and Art on April 8

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When cultures meld, it can be an opportunity to compare our similarities and experiences, rather than our differences. Artist Horishiki (Chris Brand) illustrates the common thread that runs between the Latino/Chicano and Japanese cultures through his dynamic tattoo storytelling. At his April 8 lecture at Morikami, Horishiki will explore his work, which depicts individuals’ battles against oppression in graphic, compelling “ink.” His lecture is part of the programming supporting the current exhibit, Perseverance: Japanese Tattoo Tradition in a Modern World, on display through May 8, 2016. The Morikami invites you …

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Morikami Makes – Hanami Dango!

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Hanami Dango (花見団子) [twocol_one] みんなさんこんにちは！（Hello, everyone!) Hanami dango holds a special significance for me, and it’s been a blast (of nostalgia!) to organize this recipe with the help of Jaclyn DeMarzo, our Youth & Outreach Program Coordinator, whom you’ve already met in our inaugural installment of Morikami Makes. Japanese language and culture have been a fixation of mine since I was very young, which led me to study Japanese all through college and participate in the JET Programme from 2013–2014. I lived in Hokkaidō for a year, which is the coldest …

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