Maneki-neko (Lucky Cat): Yoshio Honjo

Maneki-neko or lucky cat welcomes you with a waving paw as you enter a world of Japanese felines by Artist Yoshio Honjo. It is of no surprise that cats hold a special place in the heart of Japanese culture and history. In contemporary culture they appear as kawaii plastic Hello Kitty figurines, protagonist characters in Studio Ghibli films or as coffee companions at cat cafes. Historically cats appear in Japanese folklore tales, are documented as protectors of temples, as imperial pets, supernatural beings and as talismans bringing luck and fortune to those who encounter a cat. Yoshio imaginatively explores the enduring charm of the cat within Japanese art, literature, history and his own love of cats.