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Bamboo In Japanese Culture and Art

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Bamboo is a ubiquitous part of Japanese culture, and is an important material both in everyday life and in art. In fact, the Morikami’s collection is full of pieces made of bamboo, one of which is a basket made by master bamboo artist, Shochiku Tanabe (see below). In advance of Shochiku’s sold out basket making workshop on April 7, we spoke with our former Director of Education and bamboo expert, Reiko Nishioka, who gave us some insight on why bamboo is such an important part of Japanese art and culture, as well as …

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Guest Post – Listening for Rengetsu: Texture and the Poetry of the Multi-sensory

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In Advance of her appearance, and as a continuation of our blog series on Otagaki Rengetsu,  Professor Sayumi Takahashi Harb took some time to pen a guest post just for you, our devoted readers, discussing the dynamic artistry of Otagaki Rengetsu, whose work is featured in our current exhibition, and is the focus of our upcoming symposium. Read on for a preview of some of the themes Prof. Harb will touch on in her lecture. [hr] A mountain keeps an echo deep inside itself. That is how I hold your voice. – Jalal …

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From the Garden Manager: Morikami’s Great Horned Owls

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Over the past few weeks a little family has made its home in Morikami Park. Heather, our Resource Development Supervisor (who heads up the garden team) took some time to tell us a little about this amazing animal – the great horned owl. Read up on these stunning creatures below, but if you come to visit be sure to give them their space. They are wild animals after all, and they need the peace and quiet of this place just as much as you do. Morikami’s Great Horned Owls By Heather Grzybek, Resource Development …

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NEW – VIP Tasting Room at Oshogatsu

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This year, for the first time ever, we’re bringing you a new way to experience our traditional New Year’s celebration– the VIP Tasting Room at Oshogatsu! This exclusive experience will give guests the opportunity to taste rare, high-end sakes, beer and even a specialty sake cocktail. Read on to hear more about the offerings in this first-ever VIP Tasting Room at Oshogatsu. Sake When sake was first brewed, over 2,000 years ago, it was served as an offering to the deities, and was revered as a very special and important …

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Kimono – Japan’s Iconic Wearable Art

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It’s no secret that the kimono is one of the most iconic garments in the world. With it’s many layers, patterns, and styles the kimono has become more than just a garment – it’s been raised to the level of art. We even have a few kimono in our permanent collection. We asked our Chief Curator and Cultural Director, Tamara Joy, to give us a quick primer on the history and significance of the kimono – here’s what she had to say: The kimono is one of the most recognizable symbols …

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