They're a traditional talisman of good luck that stretches back to the origin of Zen in fifth-century Japan.
Now, they're also fine art - and they're up for bids at the Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre's sixth annual Bloom Art Auction.
The museum is offering up 100 artist-designed daruma for a special show and silent auction.
The daruma are simple tumbling dolls that are armless and legless, made out of papier-mâché and with a weighted bottom to always stand upright even if pushed down - symbolic of perseverance and fortitude.
Classic daruma are eyeless and considered to be good luck in achieving goals: one eye is painted in upon setting the goal, and the second is painted in once the goal has been accomplished.
The museum has invited a host of artists to design creative daruma using whatever colours and mediums they choose.
The list of artists includes such names as Mariko Ando Spencer, Sonny Assu, Joyce Kamikura, Michael Nichol Yahgulanaas, Jeff Chiba Stearns, Mary Anne Tateishi and many more.
The daruma will be on display at the museum gallery from May 10 to 24, and they can also be previewed online at www.nikkeiplace.org.
On Saturday, May 24, it's the Bloom Art Auction Gala from 7 to 9:30 p.m.
The event will be hosted by Margaret Gallagher of the CBC and will feature canapés, a cash bar, live entertainment and a raffle, along with the daruma auction.
Tickets are $25, or $20 for Nikkei Centre members.
For tickets or more information, call 604-777-7000 or visit centre.nikkeiplace.org/daruma-art/.
Proceeds from the event will be used to support the museum exhibits, programs, education and special events related to Japanese-Canadian history, culture and art.
