In celebration of the 57th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Barbados and Japan, the Barbados Museum & Historical Society proudly presents the exhibition, "BONSAI! BONSAI! – An Introduction to Japanese Culture in Barbados". This immersive showcase marks the culmination of decades of collaboration and cultural exchange between the two nations, highlighting the myriad ways in which their shared interests have interwoven to create a unique fusion in the heart of Barbados.
Launched on Thursday, February 29th, 2024, the exhibition showcases the successful projects that have developed over the years, including exchanges between professionals, academic scholarships, and teaching programmes.
During her Remarks at the launch event, Co-Curator and Education Officer of the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, Kaye Hall, highlighted the adaptability and creativity of Barbadians, stating: “Such is the nature of Barbadians that we are often able to incorporate ideas from all that comes to us and develop something which takes the best of both worlds and creates something uniquely us…”.
“Key amongst the successes coming out of our ongoing efforts at community engagement and outreach have been some youth-led innovations such as the yearly Duppy Tour which was the brainchild of one of our Junior Curators, Namyamka Burnett and our annual Cosplay at the Museum, conceptualised by Tre Robinson, one of our Theatre Arts Summer Interns from the Barbados Community College (BCC). What is most notable about both of these events is the incorporation of cultural ideas from elsewhere in the world whilst incorporating what is most resonant in our own culture,” Ms. Hall concluded.
The Embassy of Japan in Barbados continues to forge links within Barbadian communities supporting the activities of local organisations which explore Japanese culture. One example is the hosting of the yearly calendar exhibition at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, which introduces Barbadians to Japanese culture through the shared interest of the people of the two nations in calendars.
The "Bonsai! Bonsai!" exhibition, which runs until March 30th, 2024, promises to be a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Japan-Bajan fusion, leaving visitors with a deeper understanding of the cultural ties. We invite all enthusiasts of Japanese culture and those curious about the unique fusion with Barbadian influences to join us on this captivating journey until March 30th, 2024.
