Tanuki Sculpture (2)

Jun Kaneko

"This traditional "Tanuki" sculpture is made from ceramic by Omaha artist Jun Kaneko. Tanuki are an ancient Japanese legend symbolizing growth, prosperity, and fertility. They are said to be mischievous shapeshifting creatures displayed here as a large, stout badger. "Kaneko hails from Nagoya, Japan, and has taught in a number of prestigious schools including Scripps College, Rhode Island School of Design, and Cranbrook Academy of Art. His artwork appears in numerous international and national solo and group exhibitions annually and is included in more than eighty museum collections. Kaneko received Commendation from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Master of the Media from the James Renwick Alliance, Gold Medal for Consummate Craftsmanship from the American Craft Council, Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Sculpture Center, & holds honorary doctorates from the University of Nebraska the Massachusetts College of Art & Design, the Royal College of Art in London, and the University of Pécs in Hungary.