The Secretary of State, Cord Byrd, has announced the opening of an exhibition celebrating the 29th anniversary of the Florida-Wakayama Sister State Agreement. The exhibit will be available for viewing at the 22nd Floor Capitol Art Gallery from October 16 to December 31, 2024. A reception is scheduled for October 16 at 5:00 p.m.
“As we commemorate the 29th anniversary of the Florida-Wakayama Sister State agreement, the relationship between our two nations continues to flourish,” said Secretary Byrd. “Florida is proud to host this exhibit, which highlights talented artists from Japan and Florida. We look forward to showcasing the hospitality and cultural exchanges which lie at the heart of the agreement between Florida and Wakayama.”
The Sister-State relationship was established on October 4, 1995, with a focus on strengthening friendship and understanding through trade, economy, social, and cultural development. Cultural exchanges have been a significant part of this agreement. Artists from Wakayama have visited Florida to teach their craft while Florida artists have traveled to Japan for instruction.
Building on this partnership, Master mask maker Mr. Hakuzan Kubo has agreed to send a collection of rarely exhibited Noh Masks to Florida. The exhibition is further enriched by contributions from the University of West Florida, Morikami Museum, Gulf Coast Kiln Walk Society, private collectors, and three divisions of the Florida Department of State.
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