Asian Civilisations Museum Unveils Expanded Russel Wong In Kyoto Exhibition With New Collection Of Prints

After a six-month showcase and a steady stream of support from the public, the Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) brings back its Russel Wong in Kyoto Special exhibition by popular demand.

The show – initially part of the double-billed Life in Edo | Russel Wong in Kyoto exhibition – has been both extended and expanded, now as a standalone display with new prints that offer fresh vignettes of Kyoto and exciting new behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of geisha.

Image source: Asian Civilisations Museum

From 29 November 2021 to 10 April 2022, visitors can continue their exploration of Japanese art and culture through the black-and-white prints from the original display, enhanced with more photographs that broaden perspectives on the traditions of the geiko community and Kyoto landscapes.

These 37 never-before-seen prints spotlight customs such as the geikos’ hour-long makeup application process; ohaguro – teeth blackening, which signifies a coming of age; entertainments and tending to guests at mainstay festivities like the Baikasai Plum Blossom Festival; and even portraits of Kyoto’s oldest geiko of the early 2010s.

Image source: Russel Wong

Visitors will also be able to explore the seasonal colours and cuisine of Kyoto through a selection of vibrant colour prints that spotlight familiar facets of Japanese life, culture, and tourism.

Russel Wong has promised that all 79 prints in the exhibition will be donated to ACM at the conclusion of the exhibition, in celebration of the relationship forged between him and the museum, and the overwhelming support for the show.