Frost Art Museum at Florida International University celebrates 30 years of Florida Wakayama sister state partnership with new exhibition
Tallahassee, Florida – The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum at Florida International University is opening its doors to visitors with a special exhibition that honors the enduring partnership between Florida and Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. Titled “Harmony of Nature and Art,” the exhibit marks the 30th anniversary of the sister-state agreement, celebrating decades of cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and artistic collaboration between the two regions.
“As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Florida-Wakayama Sister State agreement, the relationship between our two nations continues to flourish,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. “Florida is proud to partner with the Patricia and Phillip Frost Art Museum on the third and final stop of the traveling collection after exhibitions at the Florida Capitol’s 22nd Floor Art Gallery and at Atlantic Center for the Arts.”
The exhibition is the culmination of a traveling collection that has already been showcased in prominent locations across Florida, bringing pieces from both American and Japanese artists to a broader audience. Miriam Machado, Interim Director at the Frost Art Museum, FIU, highlighted the significance of the milestone. “The 30-year cultural agreement between Wakayama and the State of Florida is a testament to the power of long-term international partnerships,” she said. “We see this collaboration as an opportunity to enrich education, create cultural exchanges, and prepare students to thrive in a global society. Together, this milestone reflects our shared commitment to building bridges that foster learning, mutual respect, and lasting community connections.”
Visitors to the Frost Art Museum can expect a diverse array of artwork representing the rich traditions of both regions. The exhibition features traditional Noh masks crafted by master carver Hakuzan Kubo, intricate netsuke miniature sculptures from the museum’s collection, and vibrant paintings by the Florida Highwaymen, who are celebrated for their unique depictions of the Sunshine State’s landscapes. These works provide an immersive glimpse into the artistry and cultural expressions that have flourished under decades of cooperation.
The exhibition is organized by the Florida Department of State Division of Arts and Culture and is made possible through generous loans and partnerships with multiple institutions. Contributions come from the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum at FIU, the Morikami Museum, the University of West Florida, the Gulf Coast Kiln Walk Society, private collectors, and The Florida Department of State. This collaborative effort highlights the broad support and shared enthusiasm for promoting cultural understanding through the arts.
The sister-state relationship between Florida and Wakayama Prefecture was formalized on October 4, 1995, with the goal of fostering friendship, trade, and social and cultural development. Over the past three decades, the partnership has created numerous opportunities for exchange, collaboration, and dialogue, with cultural activities remaining one of the most significant aspects of the agreement. Exhibitions like “Harmony of Nature and Art” continue that legacy by offering Floridians firsthand access to Japanese artistry while also celebrating local talents and traditions.
By bringing together artwork from both sides of the Pacific, the Frost Art Museum is providing a platform for dialogue, learning, and appreciation. The exhibition not only marks an important anniversary but also serves as a reminder of the value of international partnerships and the ways in which art can bridge cultural divides, inspire new generations, and create meaningful connections between communities.
“Harmony of Nature and Art” invites the public to experience the beauty, history, and collaboration that have defined the Florida-Wakayama relationship for the past thirty years, ensuring that the legacy of the sister-state agreement continues to thrive through art, education, and shared cultural appreciation.
