The popular exhibition at Beverley Art Gallery, ‘Reflections of Japan in East Yorkshire’, has received further official recognition from the Japanese Embassy.
The exhibition is an official event in the Japan /UK Season of Culture, and has been featured in a new video of highlights from the Season of Culture, alongside events at the Ashmolean in Oxford and at Japan House in London.
The video features footage shot at Beverley Art Gallery by Michael Nagasaka, who is one of the contributors to the exhibition, and also features Sumie Kent playing a traditional Japanese koto, as well as some of the exhibits on display.
Exhibition curator Helena Cox said : “I am absolutely delighted that ‘Reflections of Japan in East Yorkshire’ has been recognised and immortalised in this way! My intention was always to create a lasting legacy between the East Riding and Japan, and this video helps to do just that.”
The exhibition, ‘Reflections of Japan in East Yorkshire’, continues at Beverley Art Gallery in the Treasure House on Champney Road until 26 March. Admission is free and there is no need to book in advance. It brings together a selection of items from private collections across East Yorkshire and artwork by Laura Boswell. The core of the exhibition is Jane Irisa’s stunning collection of traditional Japanese toys, which she collected from all over Japan during her many journeys there.
There is also a selection of items and stories from private collections, including rare items from the Imperial Court, calligraphy, and decorative items, as well as artwork inspired by Japanese culture and a stunning collection of Japanese vintage kimonos.
To celebrate the mutual influence between Japan and Great Britain, the Gallery is presenting a selection of works by the renowned printmaker, Laura Boswell. Laura is showing examples of her work capturing the stunning Yorkshire and wider British landscapes in the traditional Japanese medium of coloured woodblock prints. All of Laura’s works on display at the exhibition are available for sale.
The exhibition also features a series of video presentations made by Japanese exchange students from Ochanomizu University (Japan) and Hull University, presenting the stories behind traditional Japanese toys and customs.
For full details of Beverley Art Gallery (opening hours, location, and facilities), visit: www.eastridingmuseums.co.uk