FEBRUARY 13
2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Five Senses of Japan is an immersive experience that brings Japanese culture to life through sight, sound, taste, touch, and tradition. Through ikebana, film, music, cuisine, and fashion, the program honors both historical craftsmanship and contemporary expression, with a special focus on women artists, fostering cultural understanding, preservation, and meaningful cross-cultural exchange.
PROGRAM
2:00 – 4:00 PM | Ikebana Workshop & Demonstration
In collaboration with Akiko Iwata and the Ceramic League
Become an Ikebana artist! Join us for a truly inspiring and immersive Ikebana experience. Renowned Ikebana artist Akiko Iwata, together with her colleague Michiyo Ishii-Sloane, will bring the art of Japanese floral design to life in a special two-part event featuring a 1-hour live demonstration followed by a 1-hour hands-on workshop.
During the demonstration, Akiko and Michiyo will create eight unique Ikebana arrangements, each thoughtfully paired with exquisite handcrafted ceramic vessels curated by James Herring of the Ceramic League.
Participants in the workshop will be provided with carefully selected flowers and pots, allowing them to create their own Ikebana arrangements under the guidance of the artist. After completing their arrangements, participants will take them home, making this a creative experience that lives beyond the event. An inspiring, artistic, and unforgettable floral journey — perfect for art lovers, design enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the elegance of Ikebana.
Museum members receive a 20% discount using code MEMSAVE20.
6:00 – 6:30 PM | Documentary Screening
The Fragility of Tradition
By Stella M. Holmes
This documentary focuses on three Japanese female artists at different stages of their lives and careers. Each woman is as distinctive as her intricate and powerful artwork, yet their stories converge through shared struggle.
Together, they stand as artistic sisters in a society where for centuries Kogei was a strictly male-dominated field—one in which women, regardless of talent, were historically excluded from participation. Their stories illuminate resilience, transformation, and the quiet breaking of tradition.
7:00 – 7:45 PM | Japanese Food, Sake & Traditional Live Music
Japanese food and sake tasting will be an integral part of the Five Senses experience. Throughout the evening, guests will be enveloped by live traditional Japanese music performed by a shakuhachi and koto duet.
The breathy, contemplative sound of the shakuhachi, long associated with Zen meditation, blends seamlessly with the koto’s flowing, harp-like strings, creating a rich and expressive dialogue between wind and string. This refined musical pairing sets a tranquil yet evocative mood, deepening the sensory experience and offering a rare opportunity to encounter the elegance and emotional depth of Japan’s classical musical traditions in an intimate setting.
7:00 – 9:00 PM | Exhibition & Silent Auction
Public Presentation & Silent Auction of Ikebana Arrangements
We are delighted to announce a special public presentation of the exquisite Ikebana arrangements created by artist Akiko Iwata, together with Michiyo Ishii-Sloane. Each floral composition is beautifully paired with handcrafted ceramic vessels, thoughtfully curated by James Herring of the Ceramic League, creating a striking harmony between floral art and ceramic design.
The arrangements will be on exhibition, offering guests the opportunity to experience these works up close in an elegant gallery setting. Guests will also enjoy a unique opportunity to acquire these one-of-a-kind pieces through a silent auction, making this an exceptional chance to take home a truly special work of art.
8:00 – 9:00 PM | Kimono Fashion Show & Background Music
Fashion Presentation
Nako Matsuda, a contemporary fashion designer, will present unique pieces created through the transformation of traditional kimonos into modern designs.
Satomi Hirano will showcase selections from her exceptional collection of traditional kimonos.
