The Japan Foundation, Manila in collaboration with Ayala Museum and Ayala Malls is set to feature “Netsuke” which are unique miniature Japanese carvings. This partnership is supported by the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines. 

This traveling exhibition entitled, “Contemporary Wood-Carved Netsuke” will open from May 1 to 26, 2019 at Ayala Malls Capitol Central Bacolod. It will also be presented at Ayala Malls Greenbelt 5 from July 1 to 21, 2019. 

Netsuke is distinctly Japanese artform. It is a small sculpture which has gradually developed in Japan over a period of more than a hundred years. It served both an aesthetic and functional purpose. Specifically, men’s kimonos did not have sleeves which could be used as pockets much like women’s kimonos. For a more convenient way to carry around their stuff, such as tobacco, medicine, or other necessities, men would hang these on a silk cord. On the other end of the cord, men would tie the netsuke to balance out the weight. 

Nowadays, netsuke have gained international acclaim for having detailed and intricate carvings. 

Hiroki Uesugi, the director of The Japan Foundation, Manila, further explains, “Netsuke is unique in that daily commodities have evolved into art form in the course of time. I believe viewers can enjoy and appreciate the delicate work of art created by Japanese craftsmanship."

These collectibles are precious and intricate. To have these in your home is sure to reflect much history and artistry of Japan.

The Contemporary Wood-Carved Netsuke is the Japan Foundation, Manila’s latest traveling exhibition and it is meant to showcase 65 works by contemporary Japanese netsuke carvers and artists.

Other events have also been prepared alongside the Netsuke exhibition. In celebration of Philippine-Japan Friendship day in July, two renowned netsuke artists from Japan, Mr. Tadamine Nakagawa and Ms. Asuka Kajiura, have been invited to give a lecture and demonstration about this distinct and historical art form.

Contemporary Wood-Carved Netsuke Exhibition

• May 1 – 26, 2019
• 1st Floor, Ayala Malls Capitol Central, Bacolod City
• Mall hours: Mon-Thurs, 10 AM to 9 PM; Fri-Sun 10 AM to 10 PM
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• July 1 – 21, 2019
• 3rd Level, Greenbelt 5 Phase 1, Makati City
• Mall hours: Mon-Thurs, 11 AM to 9 PM; Fri-Sun 11 AM to 10 PM

Special Events:

• Japanese Yukata Demonstration and Workshop
• 5 pm, May 1, Activity Center, Ayala Malls Capitol Central Bacolod
• Free admission (for limited number of participants only)
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• Netsuke Talk and Demonstration
• With Tadamine Nakagawa and Asuka Kajiura
• Greenbelt 5 Phase 1, Makati City
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*More information to be announced

Please note that details are subject to change. For more information and updates visit facebook.com/jfmanila or www.jfmo.org.ph