The “Netsuke” exhibition, a collaboration of The Japan Foundation, Ayala Museum, and Ayala Malls, will open on Wednesday, May 1, at the Ayala Capitol Central Mall in Bacolod City.

Netsuke, or small carvings, were originally created as toggles to secure small personal items, such as money pouches.

“Netsuke is unique in that daily commodities have evolved into [an] art form [over] the course of time,” said The Japan Foundation-Manila Director Hiroaki Uesugi. “I believe viewers can enjoy and appreciate the delicate work of art created by Japanese craftsmanship.”

The exhibition will present 65 works by contemporary Japanese netsuke carvers and artists.

On opening day, there will also be a demonstration and workshop showcasing yukata, a traditional Japanese garment./WDJ