The Japan Foundation Los Angeles presents TATSU: Depictions of Dragons in Japanese Art” at its hall, 5700 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 100, Los Angeles, CA 90036, from Feb. 23 through April 27, 2024. Admission free.

Gallery hours are Mon-Sat 12:00pm-6:00pm, closed on Sundays & Holiday (March 20).

The year 2024 is the Year of the Dragon in the East Asian zodiac. Japan Foundation Los Angeles celebrates this year with the exhibition TATSU: Depictions of Dragons in Japanese Art.

Featuring art works from three local collections and curated by Meher McArthur, an Asian art historian specializing in Japanese art, the exhibition highlights the dragon as a beloved motif in a wide range of Japanese art, from paintings and prints to ceramics, metalwork, and textiles.

The Japanese dragon, known as tatsu or ryū (readings of the Chinese character "龍" simplified to "竜"), is largely inspired by the Chinese dragon, or long (龍), a benevolent creature associated with imperial power and protection.

However, dragons have also featured in native Japanese mythology and legends and in all types of art for many centuries.

This exhibition includes a variety of dynamic and beautiful Japanese art works that depict the dragon not only as an exciting mythical creature but an enduring symbol of power and protection.