Yokai: Stories and Imagination 

Yokai are mysterious supernatural beings and phenomena found in Japanese folklore. They reflect ancient Japanese beliefs, fears, and curiosity about the unseen world, as well as the idea that all things—including everyday objects—may possess a spirit or soul. Traditionally, yokai were understood as entities beyond human knowledge, possessing mysterious powers that could not be explained by science.

Inspired by this rich and imaginative tradition, the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum invited artists from the local community and across the country and beyond—including established and emerging artists working in a variety of media—to submit original works inspired by yokai.

This community exhibition brings together diverse artistic interpretations of these fascinating beings, exploring the stories, traditions, beliefs, and imagination that have allowed yokai to remain an enduring part of Japanese culture.

Selected works are on view from September 4 through November 8 in the Inamori Pavilion and in the Upper Garden Gallery.

Garden early Closure and Exhibit closures:

Participating Artists

Upper Garden Gallery:Cassandra Austin,Anne,Brownfield Brown,Alice Chan,Danniel Cortada,Rumi Kuraji,XLCreatures,Sharon Mikawa,Cynara Akemi Mori,Kijung Park,Monique Quero,Angela Rische,Chris Rogers,Karina Sanchez,Mike Schuetz,Sora Shodo,Yohko Verlato, Wei Wei

Inamori Pavilion Display Case:Sophie Ancel,Jonathan Bartok,Lora ChauDavis,Tara Corral,Mark Delgadillo,Natsumi Pamela Inoue,Defoe Itzel,Jori Jori, Amonnatt,Ladasoonthorn, Chrysanne Lowe,Anissa Ocansey,Michelle Romo,Max Scheller,Julie Starr,Naomi Takata Shepherd,Snowy Zhang

Inamori Pavilion: Alejandra Albino, Joshua  Benz, Mechelle Bigelow, Kim Cobb, Steven Cooper, Matthew Ekvall, Janelle Grimsley, Brenda J.Harrison, Hunter Lindsay Hinrichs, Joshua Hrushka, Alyson  Huizar, Stephanie Inagaki, J.ArturoLaparra,Alex Jasmund, Sev  Kibler, Amanda Le, Evi Pineschi, Mark Sarmel, Don Tancredo, Vanessa Tapia, Tomi   Tate, Vanessa  Tello, Akemi Tsutsui, Helena West, Alex Wu, Abby, Roya Ziba,

Title: Harumi Osawa