A Kimono-Wrapped Gospel: The Mingei Prints of Sadao Watanabe

SEM 67 The Nativity, Detail.JPG

The Nativity (SEM 67)

Welcome to the Kristine Kay Hasse Memorial Library's collection and digital exhibit of our Watanabe collection. This digital exhibit is part of a collaborative multi-site art exhibit, both digital and physical, of the Christian scriptural-based Mingei prints by the Japanese artist Sadao Watanabe (1913-1996).

The purpose of this exhibit is to use these artworks as windows into devotional contemplation of the biblical passages being represented. While this exhibition will seek to educate visitors on Japanese art and culture, especially as it relates to Christianity in Japan, this display hopes foremost to be an opportunity for scriptural meditation and prayer. By weaving together art, scripture, and short devotions to create an immersive
environment, visitors can consider scripture simultaneously from familiar and new perspectives.

Introduction