Miami, April 16, 2018 – Miami Dade College’s (MDC) North Campus, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Japan in Miami and the Japan Foundation, will present the opening reception for Exhibition: The Dolls of Japan at 9 a.m., Wednesday, April 25. The collection of 75 works, showcases the unique traditions and exquisite craft that thrive in a country known as the “Kingdom of Dolls.” The exhibit will be on display through Friday, June 1. The event is free and open to the public.
Japanese dolls are characterized by serene facial expressions that are delicately created through a unique process of careful sculpting of the outer layer of pulverized oyster shell, the surface that covers the doll face. Old Japanese traditions such as Hina Matsuri (Girls’ Festival) and Tango no Sekku (Boys’ Festival) have fostered the culture of dolls and helped to elevate the belief that dolls are not only children’s toys but also works of art meant to be appreciated. The Japan Foundation traveling exhibition includes dolls that represent both festivals as well as examples of Noh Ningyo (Noh dolls), Oyama Ningyo (dolls depicting young women), Hakata Ningyo (Hakata dolls) and many more. The exhibition is making its debut at MDC this month after a month-long stay at the Luxun Academy of Fine Arts in Shenyang,China.
“Japan’s rich culture of dollmaking is being generously shared with the Miami Dade College community through a partnership with the Consulate General of Japan in Miami,” said North and InterAmerican Campus President, Dr. Malou C. Harrison. “Through this exhibit, the consulate wishes to promote mutual understanding and strengthen friendship. The variety and beauty of these dolls, each with their own unique meaning and style, will enrich all who visit the North Art Gallery.”
Visits during the college’s open business hours are welcome; contact 305-237-1450 to arrange a guided tour.
For more information about the exhibit, contact Dr. Zoraya Cuesta, Director of International Students, zcuesta@mdc.edu, 305-237-1191.
WHAT: Exhibition: The Dolls of Japan
WHEN: Wednesday, April 25, 9 a.m. – Opening Reception
Exhibit on display through June 1
WHERE: MDC North Campus, William Pawley Center, North Gallery, Room 5107, 11380 N.W. 27th Ave., Miami, FL 33167