Japanese Arts Foundation

the jaf is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion of japanese culture and arts in chicago. through the jaf, we seek to broaden understanding and appreciation for historical and contemporary japanese arts. the jaf aims to preserve artistic traditions and practice and nurture innovative artistic collaborations. our mission is to expand opportunity, education, and the sustainability of japanese arts in chicago through outreach to diverse communities like chicago public schools, the chicago public library, museums, and other philanthropic organizations. the jaf’s symbol is the mythical three legged crow, known as yatagarasu in shinto. yatagarasu is an expert navigator, having served as a mystical guide to the historic emperor jimmu, the first emperor of japan. yatagarasu represents divine interference in the lives of men and helping the lost to find their way. the cultural significance of yatagarasu continues on to this day, acting as a symbolic guide for modern ins