This time around, The Japan Foundation, Kuala Lumpur will hold Kokeshi Dolls Exhibition at JFKL Gallery.

Unique folk toys are found in every part of Japan, and among the most typical are kokeshi, or wooden dolls. Kokeshi are made throughout the country today but only in the Tohoku region (the northern end of the Honshu Island), they made according to traditional local techniques passed down through generations of craftsmen. Traditional kokeshi are believed to have its history back to two hundred years, sometimes in the middle of Edo period (1603-1867).

There are also creative or “sosaku” kokeshi, which are lathe-turned works of art created to express certain themes. Some artisans have begun to specialize in making creative kokeshi, and their works are sold at special shops and shown in exhibitions. Creative kokeshi are a relatively new phenomenon, but they are often quite outstanding in inspiration and expression, and their artistic value is often high.

This exhibition presents not only traditional but creative kokeshi, as well as other handcrafted wooden toys to show how traditional woodworking techniques using the lathe have been transmitted and nourished, and how new developments are emerging from that tradition.

Duration: 6 November (Tue)–28 December (Fri)
Venue: Gallery, The Japan Foundation, Kuala Lumpur, Suite 30.01, Level 30, Menara Citibank, 165, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Opening Hours:
[Mon] 10:30am–4:30pm
[Tue–Fri] 10:30am–6:30pm
[Sat] 10:00am–6:00pm
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Admission: FREE

Inquiry: 03-2161 2104