With “A Lucky Cat” exhibition, the maneki-neko gets a makeover

Who has never stopped in front of a Japanese restaurant window to watch that little cat swinging its paw from front to back with a benevolent look? These typical figurines found in most Japanese shops and restaurants are now known to everyone, but most do not know their real name: the maneki-neko. Traditionally made of papier mâché, maneki-neko has crossed time and borders, and has been declined in all sizes, colors and materials, from the purest to the most extravagant. Whether lifting its left or right leg, decorative, advertising object or lucky charm, the little feline is one of the most important symbols of Japanese aesthetics and culture around the world. On the occasion of the “Japonismes 2018”, which celebrates 160 years of diplomatic relations between France and Japan, Sid Lee is organizing the exhibition “A Lucky Cat” in its brand new gallery in collaboration with Sato Creative. Starry for Fantasista Utamaro, knitted for Kodai, gradient for Cyrielle Gulacsy, erotic for Petites Luxures… About fifty Japanese and French artists revisit the Japanese cat in their own way. Made by craftsmen from Takasaki, Gunma, these maneki-neko go from everyday objects to contemporary works of art. This collection of unique pieces is to be discovered at Sid Lee gallery until November 9.