'Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper' Opens at the Museum of Art

Join us for an innovative, new exhibition at the Museum of Art, Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Art. The exhibit spotlights the works of nine contemporary Japanese artists who explore the artistic potential of handmade washi by pushing its boundaries in terms of texture, dimension, and scale. The exhibit is on view May 24 - August 10, 2024.

Washi Transformed focuses on washi (Japanese handmade paper) as a medium for contemporary art and spotlights the works of nine diverse, contemporary Japanese artists who are exploring the artistic potential of this traditional material. The exhibit presents over thirty works including highly textured two-dimensional pieces, expressive sculptures, and dramatic installations that explore the astonishing potential of this traditional medium. The diversity of the artwork demonstrates the resilience and versatility of washi as a medium in the realm of international contemporary art.

Washi Transformed features works of Japanese artists: Hina Aoyama, Eriko Horiki, Kyoko Ibe, Yoshio Ikezaki, Kakuko Ishii, Yuko Kimura, Yuko Nishimura, Takaaki Tanaka, and Ayomi Yoshida. Exhibit curator Meher McArthur explains, "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."

There will be an exhibit opening reception from 5 - 7 p.m. on Friday, June 7 featuring a drumming performance by Torii Taiko, that uses traditional Japanese drums and other Japanese instruments. Then from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 8 there will be an educational program featuring Torii Taiko where they will discuss the drums, tools, and oral traditional associated with Japanese drumming.

Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper was organized by Meher McArthur and is toured by International Arts & Artists, Washington, D.C. International Arts & Artists is a non-profit arts service organization dedicated to increasing cross-cultural understanding and exposure to the arts internationally, through exhibitions, programs and services to artists, arts institutions, and the public.

The museum is located at 491 N. Main St. and is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday. There is no admission fee. The museum is accessible from RoadRUNNER Transit Route 1 Stop 1. For additional information, visit the website at https://www.lascruces.gov/museums or call (575)541-2137.