NEWS

A unique exhibition "NINGYŌ: the Art and Beauty of Japanese Dolls" has been opened at Panevėžys City Art Gallery. The exhibition, organized by the Japanese Foundation and the Embassy of Japan in Lithuania, presents 67 authentic Japanese dolls, divided into four thematic groups: "Ningyō – Prayers for Children's Growth," "Ningyō as Visual Art," "Ningyō as Folk Art," and "Ningyō and Culture."

"I am delighted to welcome the Ambassador of Japan, His Excellency Mr. Shinsuke Shimizu, and the representatives of the embassy to Panevėžys. We are grateful to the Embassy of Japan for the attention they have shown to our city. Japanese art is already recognized and appreciated in Panevėžys – the works of the photographer from Toyohashi city decorate the city cantre, the international exhibition is opening today. We are proud that Panevėžys is the only place in Lithuania where people can experience such a rich and delicate culture of Japanese dolls. This exhibition is yet another proof of the fact that culture speaks a universal language connecting people, nations, and traditions. I sincerely thank the Japanese Foundation, the Embassy of Japan in Lithuania, and everyone who contributed to bringing this exhibition to our city. May it inspire us to not only learn about a far away country but also about each other," said Petras Luomanas, the Acting Mayor of Panevėžys.

"NINGYŌ" in Japanese means "a human form." In Japan, dolls are not only toys but also an important part of culture and everyday life. The exhibition invites visitors to discover the diversity of this deep tradition – from ancient Katashiro and Amagatsu doll archetypes to contemporary works created from the latest materials. The exhibition reflects the craftsmanship of Japanese creators, conveying the significance of dolls as art, rituals, performing arts, and everyday life elements.

This exhibition is part of the Japanese Foundation's "Traveling Exhibitions Program," which reaches around 80 museums and galleries worldwide every year. The dolls currently on display in Panevėžys arrived from the Latvian capital, Riga, and will travel to Croatia after May 11. Panevėžys Art Gallery is the only exhibition space in Lithuania where visitors can experience this impressive collection.