Sculpture from Washi Transformed.
Photo by Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens.
“Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper” features over 30 textured, two-dimensional works, expressive sculptures and installations that explore the capabilities of this art form. In this exhibition, nine Japanese artists embrace the seemingly infinite possibilities of washi.
The exhibit is at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens through April 2.
Washi is the term for paper that uses local fiber and is processed by hand in the traditional manner. Washi is made with fibers from the inner bark of the gampi tree, the mitsumata shrub or the paper mulberry bush.
For over 1,000 years Japan has produced some of the world’s finest paper. The creativity of these artists shows how history informs the present and how it can build lasting cultural bridges out of something as seemingly simple as paper.
“Washi Transformed” features contemporary artists Aoyama Hina, Horiki Eriko, Ibe Kyoko, Ikezaki Yoshio, Ishii Kakuko, Kimura Yuko, Nishimura Yuko, Tanaka Takaaki and Yoshida Ayomi.
“These nine contemporary Japanese artists are revisiting their nation’s traditional material and elevating it into a medium for expressive and often spectacular works of art,” curator Meher McArthur says.
Morikami has been a center for Japanese arts and culture in South Florida since its opening in 1977. In addition to exhibits such as “Washi Transformed,” Morikami offers educational programs, seasonal events, six gardens inspired by different Japanese historical periods and styles, a world-class bonsai display, pan-Asian cuisine and a distinctive museum store.
The museum is at 4000 Morikami Park Road in Delray Beach. Admission is $15 for adults, $13 for those 65 and older, $9 for ages 6 to 17, and free for younger children and Morikami members. For more information, visit morikami.org, or call
561-495-0233.
