The theme combines different approaches that a culture may use to protect its citizens. "Safety" comes from the American focus on keeping its citizens protected with safety materials: caution tape, instructional signs and reflective material. "Luck" comes from the Japanese tradition of attaining luck through charms, rituals and temples. "Luck" contextualizes "Safety": while some America may be obsessed with safety, others cultures may have a different focus for protection entirely. The creator of the exhibition and lead curator, Michiko Tanaka draws from observations of growing up between Japanese and American cultures.