FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) -Vibrant artwork, traditional Japanese attire, and immersive, hands-on experiences filled the Plains Art Museum this afternoon. It’s day one of the three-day Japan Art Festival—an event bringing the centuries-old art form of Ukiyo-e (oo-key-yo-eh) to life. And for many visitors, it’s their first glimpse into Japanese culture and tradition.
Mika Usuki, Japan Outreach Initiative Coordinator at the Plains Art Museum, helped organize the event and says it’s an important opportunity to build cultural awareness in the region.
“ The mission of this program is promoting Japanese culture in the area which doesn’t have a strong connection with Japan.”
Over the course of three days, Japan Outreach Initiative Coordinator Mika is providing an opportunity to not just view Japanese art—but to experience it in a fully immersive way.
Mika Usuki explains the cultural importance of using all senses when engaging with traditional art.
“In Japanese culture, using all five senses is very important.”
Today’s hands-on experience included origami making, coloring, and stamp collecting—each giving participants a taste of traditional Japanese creativity.
Festival Volunteer Tiara Harris helped guide attendees through the activities and explained the meaning behind one of the stamps.
“This part of the stamp—it’s a three-part stamp recreating Aka Fuji, or Red Fuji, which is a painting of Mt. Fuji.”
Beyond the art, festivalgoers had a chance to step into Japanese fashion by trying on the Yukata—a traditional summer garment. And I even joined in on the fun.
“It’s a pretty extensive process. It does take quite a few different layers for this to come to life. You have the robe itself, the belt, the tie…”
“And did you realize how many ties?”
“Yes, they tied it roughly about maybe six times to make sure it stays on.”
And after about two minutes—the Yukata was on!
Guests also explored the featured gallery Floating Beauty: Women in the Art of Ukiyo-e a stunning collection showcasing the woodblock prints of the Edo period.
Mika Usuki explains how the art form of Ukiyo-e is a collaborative process.
“Making one piece, we need team building. One person is in charge of creating the wood board, another applies the ink, and another creates the design.”
The Japan Art Festival is doing more than just celebrating tradition—it’s building connections and sparking curiosity about a culture not often spotlighted in Fargo.
Festival Volunteer Tiara Harris says Mika’s presence has played a big role.
“I think having Mika here at the Plains Art Museum has really helped bring awareness to Japanese art and culture.”
Raquel Mellegaard, Plains Art Museum Employee, says events like this are important for cultural representation in the community.
“I love representation of any kind. And the fact that we get to host something like this at a place that’s open to everyone—where anyone can come—and now with all these activities going on, it’s fantastic.”
Mika Usuki hopes the festival deepens understanding and appreciation across cultures.
“I believe understanding the different background and the different culture, understanding those kinds of stuff, make, like deepens our mutual understanding.”
Reporting in Fargo, Selah Jacoway, Valley News Live.
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