The Japanese American Cultural and Community Center (JACCC) would like to invite all of the diverse voices in the community to participate in “Hatsu-Mato” (First Target), the 15th annual shikishi exhibition opening on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2013.
Shikishi paperboards have been used in Japan since the 12th century for traditional painting or to inscribe poetry. Today, shikishi are given as a gift to mark a memorable or special occasion.
In 1998, Hirokazu Kosaka, JACCC’s artistic director, fused traditional and contemporary notions of the shikishi by asking over 500 people to celebrate the new year by expressing themselves using the shikishi board. Participants included celebrities, local personalities, politicians, artists, priests, children, writers, and community members.
The outcome was an intriguing and eclectic exhibit of shikishi art. Some were simple while others elaborate and colorful. Some were even fashioned into free-standing sculptures. All were unique.
Based on the “Hatsu-Mato” theme, JACCC is asking people to express their thoughts, hopes, and dreams for the new year using a shikishi. There are no guidelines; you may write on it, use it as a canvas, and even cut it up to construct a three-dimensional object.
Shikishi boards may be purchased at a local Japanese market. The suggested entry fee to participate in the exhibition is $10.
The deadline to submit all work is Friday, Dec. 21. Contact Wakana Kimura at (213) 628-2725, ext.146 with any questions or concerns.