Morikami Unveils Two New Exhibits

Zodiac Animals (Tiger)
Credit: Morikami

(Press Release) DELRAY BEACH, FL – Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is proud to present Zodiac Animals and Japanese Roof Tiles. These limited-time exhibits offer visitors an immersive exploration into two unique aspects of Japanese art, tradition, and culture. Both exhibits are on view now through November 30.

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Zodiac Animals
Enter a whimsical world in the Kohnken Gallery, where a fascinating menagerie of creatures both real and mythical bring to life the 12 animals of the Asian zodiac. This enchanting exhibit showcases a variety of artistic expressions including origami, toys, prints, votives, statuary, carvings, and papier-mâché, offering a playful and thought-provoking journey through time and symbolism. Rooted in the Chinese lunar calendar, the zodiac cycle assigns an animal and one of five elemental traits (water, fire, earth, metal, or wood) to each birth year. The full cycle spans 60 years, culminating in a return to one's original zodiac animal and element, making the 60th birthday a momentous and symbolic occasion in East Asian tradition. Discover what your zodiac sign reveals about you in this vibrant and educational exhibit.
 
Japanese Roof Tiles
Step into the Yamato-kan and explore the timeless beauty and function of Japanese roof tiles, or kawara, through an extraordinary selection from the Morikami Museum Collection. Tracing their origins to 7th century Japan, these tiles were initially reserved for Buddhist temples before becoming a hallmark of residential and public architecture due to their durability and elegant craftsmanship. Crafted from clay and finished with a smoky gray sheen, kawara tiles are more than just architectural elements: each design incorporates folklore motifs, charms for good fortune, or safeguarding to ward off demons and bad spirits. With over 1,000 symbolic tile variations still in use today, this exhibit offers a unique glimpse into kawara’s rich history of artistry and symbolic protection.
 
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach, Florida. For more information, call (561) 495-0233 or visit morikami.org.