29-05-2025
Hokusai's Japan comes to Chicago in new exhibit
Immerse yourself in the rich world of historical Japanese art and culture this summer just an hour's drive from the city.
Why it matters: For the first time, the " Hokusai & Ukiyo-e: The Floating World" exhibition is visiting the U.S. At the Cleve Carney Museum of Art in Glen Ellyn, you can see artifacts, paintings and original works by Hokusai as well as handcrafted objects from the Edo period.
The vibe: You can also explore an immersive, comic-inspired room by Vanessa and Kevin Vu, owners of Chicago's 2d Restaurant.
The space is great for photo-ops and takes you through the evolution of manga-Japanese comics.
There are hands-on activities for kids inside the discovery center, and you can step outside to explore the Great Wave Gardens.
Context: A record 3.3 million foreigners traveled to Japan in July 2024, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization.
Americans made up about 8% of inbound tourists last July.
What they're saying:"Japanese Ukiyo-e artists have had a profound influence on global visual culture, and although these works are centuries old, they continue to resonate powerfully with counterpart audiences," curator Justin Witte said in a statement.
My thought bubble: This exhibit is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring other cultures or fascinated by Japan's shogun era. You can also try Edo-inspired food and grab some memorabilia at the gift shop.
If you go: The exhibit opens Saturday at the Cleve Carney Museum of Art on the College of DuPage campus in Glen Ellyn.
