Japanese artwork exhibition gives taste of old and new

An art exhibition featuring Japanese modern art as well as chuusen, a fading traditional dyeing and weaving method of Japan, is scheduled to open today in the capital city.

Entitled Sakura, the display will exhibit artworks by 13 young female Japanese artists.


Although different in choices of materials, styles and areas of interest, the artists in this show have one thing in common – a continuous devotion to expressing themselves only on canvas, using languages from contemporary art, illustration and textiles.

Like the air of an early morning in spring, the works on display beautifully capture and depict the lightness and tranquility of the season of love.

Through the artworks, the show expects visitors to feel the spring in the air.

The second part of the display, A Japanese Tradition with Illustration, will feature chusen – the technique of dyeing cloth which is becoming rare nowadays.

In an attempt to revive chusen and to popularise it among the younger generations, a company is using the technique to produce tenugui, a type of multi-purpose handkerchief with modern patterns, which can be used not only to wipe, but also to wrap presents or as a scarf, thus helping users make a unique fashion statement.

The artists have collaborated with the company to design and produce tenugui handkerchiefs especially for this show in Manzi, which will be available for purchase at the venue.

One can lend a touch of Japanese tradition combined with contemporary art to one's daily life in the form of a beautiful fashion garment.

The free-entry Japanese show will take place at Manzi Art Space, 14 Phan Huy Ich Street, from April 3 to 7