Paraguay Art Exhibition “Threads of Hybridity: The Story of Nikkei and Ñanduti”
On December 9, Dr. Ritter Díaz, Representative Director of JAPOLAC, attended the opening ceremony of the exhibition “Threads of Hybridity: The Story of Nikkei and Ñanduti,” organized by the Japan Ñanduti Association at the Cervantes Institute in Tokyo.
The event commenced with warm greetings and opening remarks delivered by Mr. Víctor Andresco, Director of the Cervantes Institute, Ms. Emi Fukuoka, a Paraguayan fashion graduate student, and Mrs. Elena Iwatani, President of the Japan Ñanduti Association. The opening ceremony concluded with a welcoming address and toast by His Excellency Mario Toyotoshi, Ambassador of Paraguay to Japan.
This captivating exhibition delves into the intricate connections between Paraguayan Ñandutí lace and the cultural identity of the Nikkei community. It chronicles the origins of Ñandutí, which was introduced to Paraguay from Spain during the colonial era, and highlights its journey to Japan, where it has flourished as part of the shared cultural heritage of Paraguayan and Japanese Nikkei traditions.
Ñandutí, meaning “spiderweb” in Guaraní, is a traditional Paraguayan lace-making craft renowned for its intricate patterns and vibrant designs inspired by the beauty of nature. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted, transforming it into a work of art. Over time, Ñandutí has become a distinct cultural symbol of Paraguay, celebrated both domestically and internationally for its exceptional artistry.
The exhibition features an engaging comparison of traditional Ñandutí creations by Paraguayan artisans alongside exquisite works crafted by members of the Ñandutí Association in Japan. Additionally, a capsule collection of contemporary interpretations of Ñandutí will be showcased, designed by Ms. Emi Fukuoka in collaboration with the Japanese Ñandutí Association.
The interplay between Japanese Nikkei traditions and Paraguayan Ñandutí lace exemplifies the richness of cultural hybridity. This harmonious fusion blends the precision and aesthetics of Japanese design with the time-honored techniques of Ñandutí, resulting in a hybrid art form that beautifully reflects the shared identity and cultural coexistence of these two communities.
The exhibition runs from December 9, 2024, to February 8, 2025, at the Cervantes Institute in Tokyo. For additional details, please refer to the enclosed flyer.
