This is a cultural event jointly hosted by YOMI International Inc., the Death Fes General Incorporated Association, and IVORY Inc. Centered on life and death, memory, and remembrance, it aims to convey Japanese views of life and death through art, dialogue, and hands-on experiences. All times below are New York local time.
On the first day, the program opens from 10:00 to 10:30 with an encoffining ceremony by encoffinment specialist Koki Kimura and a calligraphy performance by calligrapher Taisan.
Learn the knots and meanings of mizuhiki and make an accessory
On Thursday, November 5, from 17:00 to 18:30, Satoi Adams will lead the mizuhiki workshop "Memento Mori Jewelry." You will learn the basic knots and the meanings behind them while making your own accessory.
Mizuhiki is a Japanese craft in which thin cords made of twisted washi paper are tied to decorate gifts, envelopes, and more. Beginners are welcome at the workshop, and materials are provided. You can take home the accessory you make.
- Date and time: Thursday, November 5, 2026, 17:00-18:30
- Fee: US$50 per person (materials included). Event admission is required separately
- Capacity: 12 people, reservation required
- Registration deadline: 24 hours before the start. Cancellations made less than 72 hours before the start are non-refundable
- Reservations: Sign up via the RESOBOX mizuhiki workshop information page and select "November 5th at 5 pm (Memento Mori festival)" at checkout
*The official announcement does not state whether the workshop fee includes or excludes tax.
Works by more than 20 artists and a market of Japanese crafts
At "Art on Life & Death," held on both days, more than 20 artists will exhibit and sell works on the themes of death, memory, and remembrance. There will also be a market offering Japanese crafts, urns, and keepsakes.
The event also includes an experience of lying in a coffin, a "Death Cafe" for talking about life and death, and a Zen meditation session. The program combines dialogue and hands-on experiences with viewing the works. Times for each program and the full program can be found on the RESOBOX event and ticket information page.
Memento Mori in NYC: dates, venue, and admission
- Name: Memento Mori in NYC: The Art of Japanese Life and Death
- Dates: Thursday, November 5 and Friday, November 6, 2026
- Hours: Doors open 9:30, program starts 10:00, closes 19:00 (New York local time)
- Venue: RESOBOX East Village
- Address: 91 E 3rd St, New York, NY 10003, United States
- Admission: Early bird US$20 (first 100 tickets), general US$30. Both are valid for two days, and New York sales tax of 8.875% is charged separately
- Reservations and how to join: Sold on the RESOBOX admission ticket page. General tickets can also be purchased at the venue on the day, paying by smartphone via the QR code at the reception desk
- Separately priced programs: mizuhiki workshop, memorial portrait photo session, after-party
- Cancellation: Cancellations made less than 72 hours before the event are non-refundable
Image: courtesy of YOMI International Inc.
