Global Gatherings: Japan | Panels & Workshops

Experience the beauty and traditions of Japan at Global Gatherings: Japan, a free cultural celebration on March 21 from noon to 5 p.m. at Gathering Place.

This immersive event features live Japanese art demonstrations, including work by renowned Gyotaku artist Dwight Hwang, whose pieces have been featured by Patagonia, Forbes, and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Guests can also enjoy a special appearance by Yoshi Amao, known for his role in the hit series Shōgun, who will demonstrate traditional Tate swordwork and share behind-the-scenes insights from the show.

The event includes a mini-convention–style experience with anime drawing workshops, interactive panels and a Japanese art market. Timed with cherry blossom season, the park becomes a vibrant cultural setting blending traditional Japanese art with contemporary pop culture.

Visitors can also explore outdoor experiences throughout the park, including self-guided forest bathing stations and a colorful hanging pinwheel display on the King Post Bridge, creating a seasonal backdrop perfect for photos.

Designed for anime enthusiasts, families and cultural explorers alike, Global Gatherings: Japan offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Japan right here in Tulsa.

Global Gatherings: Japan is presented in partnership with Oklahoma Society for Culture Appreciation, Tulsa Global Alliance, Asian Affairs Commission, and the Japanese Friendship Club.

This event is free to attend thanks to the Explore & Imagine program at Gathering Place, funded by the Public Service Company of Oklahoma Foundation.

This Eventbrite listing allows guests to preregister for workshops and panels, as space is limited. See the agenda below to choose which sessions you want to go to and claim your free spot.

Info: Join the Cosplay 101 panel to learn about what cosplay is, its history and how to get involved! Oklahoma has diverse opportunities for cosplayers looking to get started, and we’ll show you some great resources and supplies for beginning your cosplay journey. We’re excited to share our experiences participating in this fun and inclusive hobby! This panel features Lizcraft Cosplay, Marlie of Divine Creations Cosplay, and Salty Raven Cosplay.

Info: These 45-minute workshop sessions will include a 10–15-minute presentation on anime fundamentals and history, followed by a 30-minute hands-on drawing walkthrough. All levels of experience are welcome. Each participant will get to take home their own Anime Drawing Starter kit!

Info: Explore the past, present, and future of the gaming world. We’ll discuss the origins of timeless franchises like Super Mario and Pokémon, which blended gameplay with storytelling to captivate the world. Learn about how Japan dominates the anime and gaming industries in today’s global gaming economy and look to the future with the release of sequels and remakes of 90s/00s classics and more! This panel features Warguts' Chris Perez.

Info: These 45-minute workshop sessions will include a 10–15-minute presentation on anime fundamentals and history, followed by a 30-minute hands-on drawing walkthrough. All levels of experience are welcome. Each participant will get to take home their own Anime Drawing Starter kit!

Info: Hear from voice actress Anastasia Munoz about her experiences providing English-language voices for over 200 anime characters from various films and television series.

Info:

These 45-minute workshop sessions will include a 10–15-minute presentation on anime fundamentals and history, followed by a 30-minute hands-on drawing walkthrough. All levels of experience are welcome. Each participant will get to take home their own Anime Drawing Starter kit!

Info: Meet Yoshi Amao and hear about his amazing life experiences through the lenses of:

The Journey: The path that led from Japan to the heart of New York.

Living the Bushido: Merging an ancient lifestyle with the modern world, and visions for the future.

Info:

These 45-minute workshop sessions will include a 10–15-minute presentation on anime fundamentals and history, followed by a 30-minute hands-on drawing walkthrough. All levels of experience are welcome. Each participant will get to take home their own Anime Drawing Starter kit!

Info: American-born artist Brooke Stephenson, aka Ogawa Burukku, shares stories from her 16 years of living in Japan as an illustrator, manga artist, and manga assistant. From errant editors to impossible deadlines, Brooke describes the manga making climate from a foreigner’s point of view.

Info:

These 45-minute workshop sessions will include a 10–15-minute presentation on anime fundamentals and history, followed by a 30-minute hands-on drawing walkthrough. All levels of experience are welcome. Each participant will get to take home their own Anime Drawing Starter kit!

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