BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

BRUNEI and Japan have launched an art exhibition as the first event to mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the countries.

The exhibition titled, “Sharaku Interpreted by Japan’s Contemporary Artists” is open to the public at the Royal Wharf Art Gallery.

Seisuke Shimizu, Charge d’ Affaires at the Japanese Embassy in Brunei hoped the exhibition would promote closer bilateral ties.

“I hope that people in Brunei take the opportunity to attend cultural events organised by the embassy to deepen their understanding and interest in Japan, and that exchanges through those cultural events and activities will contribute to further enhance our ties.”

The artist, who is subject of the contemporary interpretations exhibition, Sharaku, was born in the 18th century and a renowned Japanese master of _ukiyo-e _or style of woodblock printing.

The Charge d’ Affaires explained that he is known for this portraits of Kabuki (classical Japanese drama) actors.

Seisuke said the exhibition was a personal reinterpretation of Sharaku by contemporary designers and artists.

He explained that the exhibition features 28 reproductions of Sharaku’s bust portraits, 28 posters by graphic designers; and 23 paintings, sculptures, ceramics and woodblock prints by contemporary artists.

Also as part of the celebrations to mark the 30th anniversary, there would be musical performances by cultural group AUN & Hide at Sutera Biru Plaza in Seria on February 7 and Jerudong International School on February 8.

Seisuke added the annual Japan festival is slated to be held in March.

The art exhibition is organised by the Japan Embassy in Brunei and Japan Foundation, in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS).

Attending the event was Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Hj Hazair Hj Abdullah.

The exhibition is open to the public for free until January 25 from 9am to 5pm; Sundays to Thursday from 9am to 11.30am & 2.30pm to 5pm on Fridays; and from 9.45am to 5pm on Saturdays.

The Brunei Times