Global Collection

Meet Puppets from Around the World

Puppetry is a truly global art form, and its stories are as diverse as the cultures that created them.

The Global Collection takes you on a geographic journey through the history and traditions of puppetry. Discover how artists and communities have used puppets to express reverence, humor, protest, celebration, and entertainment. Find the threads of influence that connect these traditions across time and place.

From American creations by artist Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade originator Tony Sarg to Japanese Bunraku puppets donated by master puppeteer and Living National Treasure Kiritake Kanjuro III, the gallery reveals the extraordinary range of materials, techniques, characters, and cultural traditions that make up the art of puppetry.

The Global Collection is a permanent exhibition that is continually refreshed with select objects rotating from the Center’s extensive holdings, offering new discoveries alongside enduring favorites.

Admission includes access to the Jim Henson Collection as well as any current special exhibition.