Haiga (pronounced hī-guh) combines hai (haiku) and ga (painting). Traditionally, a poet-artist would write a short haiku—capturing a fleeting moment in nature or daily life—directly onto a brush painting or calligraphy piece. The art doesn’t simply illustrate the poem; instead, the two interact, contrasting or complementing each other to spark reflection and deeper meaning. At its heart, haiga embodies simplicity, subtlety, and harmony, encouraging viewers to slow down and truly see the beauty in small, everyday moments.

Today’s artists are reimagining the form using photography, digital media, and contemporary styles, proving that this art continues to evolve and inspire. Visitors will experience works from artists across the U.S. and beyond, each bringing a unique cultural and artistic perspective. Together, their work shows how haiga connects people across time and place through the shared language of poetry and image.

Featured artists include:

A.D. Adams, Pamela A. Babusci, Nancy Brady, Abigail Callis, Anthony Corraro, Kari Davidson, Janet Debray, Mary Ellen Daugherty, Megan Daugherty, Odile Endres, Amanda Gress, Jennifer Hambrick, Susan Mallernee, Darlene O’Dell, April Pameticky, Amanda Pfister, Holli Rainwater, Kala Ramesh, Valentina Ranaldi-Adams, Susan Lee Roberts, Julie Schwerin, Christine Sycks, Carolyn Van Lang, Robin White, and Xine Watson.

Alongside the visual haiga, visitors can experience the Midwest Haiku Traveling Rock Garden, curated by poet Matthew Markworth. This literary installation celebrates English-language haiku, with stones inscribed with poems that change from year to year. Displayed in different venues across the Midwest, the Rock Garden gives audiences a chance to encounter haiku in a fresh, community-driven way. Learn more at haikurockgarden.com.