Kyoto hosts exhibitions of Buddhist art and sculpture

Two distinct exhibitions featuring Buddhist-themed art are being held in Kyoto.

At Taima-ji temple in Yamashina Ward, artist Sakura Tachibana is presenting a solo exhibition titled ‘Buddhas Born from Earth’ from November 16 to 18. Tachibana, who studied Buddhist sculpture in Bhutan, will display over a dozen pieces, including Tibetan-style statues such as the Green Tara and Vajrasattva, alongside Japanese figures like the Dainichi Nyorai. The works are crafted from a specialized clay mixture involving Shigaraki white clay and Kuya Washi paper. The exhibition also includes informational panels regarding Bhutanese culture and the sculpture process.

Separately, Toji Temple in Minami Ward is hosting an exhibition of approximately 200 Buddhist paintings by artist Kanransai. The collection features a variety of mediums, ranging from oil paintings to woodblock prints, characterized by their gentle and endearing depictions of deities.