The Nikkei National Museum and Heritage Centre is paying tribute to Japanese culture for its annual spring fundraiser.
The museum is holding its seventh annual BLOOM party and silent art auction on Wednesday, April 1.
The annual event is the museum's main fundraiser, which raises money to help support the museum's exhibitions and educational programs related to the history and culture of Japanese-Canadians.
The theme this year is Vessels (Iremono).
"Japan is famous for its pottery and many other craft traditions," note organizers in a press release. "We were inspired by some of the vases in our permanent collection and the importance of noodle bowls and tea cups to Japanese culture."
The museum has invited local artists to donate their interpretation of a vessel or container - in the form of a bowls, vase, basket, box or bag, in any medium of their choice.
The vessels in question will be auctioned off for the fundraiser.
The list of artists involved is an extensive one, featuring such names as Leanne Dunic, Hide Ebina, Kimiko Hawkes, Masako Hori, Judy Nakagawa, Eiko Okunuki , Jeff Chiba Stearns, Bob Suzuki and many more.
The BLOOM event will also celebrate the closing of the museum's Magic Hour exhibition, which has been organized by the Instant Coffee artist collective using treasures from the museum's permanent collection.
"Expect some fun music, artistic performances and magical activities," the press release promises.
The evening will be hosted by Margaret Gallagher, and the fun will include a Lonestar Yakuza Taco Bar by Open Sesame, a signature tequila sunrise cocktail, Fujiya sushi samplings, Kanazawa Wines, raffle prizes and more.
The finished vessels can be previewed online at www.charityauctionorganizer.com/auction/bloom2015 starting on March 22.
Tickets to the BLOOM party are $25 (or $20 for members). Call 604-777-7000 or visit centre.nikkeiplace.org/bloom-2015.
