On Exhibition, May 1 - June 30, 2001

One of the major themes in Japanese art has been the desire to express a reverence and affinity for man's fellow earthly inhabitants. Whether shown as socio-political emblems or playful studies of nature, an innate respect for the animal kingdom is present. Hanging scrolls, folding screens, sliding doors, printed albums and wooden sculpture, ranging in date from the 13th to 19th centuries, from the Center's permanent collection are all used to show birds, fish, frogs, monkeys, tigers and oxen in the context of ancient legends, folklore, the Chinese zodiac, and the majesty of nature itself.

The tiger, the great terrestrial power, is recognized for its courage and strength. The ox embodies agriculture and abundance. Leaping carp symbolize maturity, perseverance, and educational success. And the rooster, who crows at dawn, can drive away the evil spirits of darkness and herald the return of the good deities of light.

Some animals are depicted in exquisite detail, revealing the artist's keen awareness of nature and superb draftsmanship. Others are expressed with humor and satire, often at the expense of the conservative and heavy-handed policies of the ruling Edo military government (1615-1868). Finally, others strive to understand the kokoro, or 'heart and soul' of the animal in an exercise of minimalism, utilizing a limited number of brush strokes.

This is the Center's final exhibition before the annual summer closing of our galleries through July and August. We invite visitors to come explore the world of our gilled, scaled, feathered, and furry friends as expressed through the eyes of the Japanese artist. (Visitor info)