Setsubun Open Studio and Mamemaki (豆まき)
Join us for Setsubun, a traditional Japanese seasonal ritual that marks the threshold between winter and spring—a time to release misfortune and welcome renewal.
Over the past two months, six Nikkei artists have been taking part in workshops and developing artistic ideas that will be shared on February 1st. See works in progress, enjoy bean throwing to drive out the oni of misfortune, and see the JCCC building in a new light.
It is a moment to release misfortune and welcome renewal. Rooted in a traditional Japanese ritual, the evening invites guests to take part in mamemaki (bean throwing) to symbolically drive out the oni, figures of illness, fear, and disruption, and to share in the quiet ritual of ehomaki, eaten in silence while facing the year’s auspicious direction.
Alongside these practices, visitors will have a first look at works in progress from our Setsubun artist residency, featuring contemporary Nikkei artists exploring light and dark, purification, change, and seasonal return. Families, elders, and children of all ages are welcome. Come mark the season together and step into the coming year with intention.
Artists: Carin Katagiri; Dylan Tamiharu; Tamiko Potts; Mitsuko Noguchi; Keiko Hart; Jaeden Sasaki
4:00pm to 5:00pm: meet the artists
5:00pm to 6:00pm: mamemaki (bean throwing) in Kobayashi Hall
6:00pm to 6:30pm: ehomaki in Shokokai Court
6:30pm to 8:00pm: check out the works in progress
NOTES:
- some works involve bright lights and hazers (a machine that produces a fine mist in the air)
- these are early prototypes of works under development and not completed projects – this is an opportunity for artists to test their ideas, share with the community, and get early feedback