An exhibition of photography, costume and beadwork installation inspired by the mythology of ancient Japan

Spirit of the Kami is a visual journey back to the mysterious and compelling worlds of ancient Japan. This exhibition provides the rare opportunity to visit many of ancient Japan's sacred sites through a series of photographs. An installation of costumes, inspired by the actual designs of pre-Heian garments, along with replicas of ornaments found at archaeological sites around Japan, will unveil the world of two of ancient Japan’s legendary figures, the Sun Goddess Amaterasu and the shaman Queen Himiko.

Kara Yamaguchi is an Australian artist based in Tokyo, whose photography work and costume creations have received ongoing recognition in Japan for their unique expression of colour and use of sacred symbolism. The inspiration for her work lies in her lifelong interest and research into the role of art in recording ancient spiritual traditions, and the importance of costume in preserving ethnic diversity. In particular her work is influenced by her Japanese roots, studies of wasai (kimono making), and from the pilgrimages she has made to many of Japan’s sacred sites. Kara is also active as a facilitator of eco-art workshops for both children and adults in Japan.