Hisakatsu Hijikata, a Japanese sculptor and folklore scholar, arrived in Palau in 1929, and taught woodcarving to the children of Palau at a public school. During this time Hijikata created works that reflected the art and culture of Micronesia. He also directed Palauan children to carve into boards designs similar in style to those found on the “bai” meeting houses of Palau. This type of woodwork is called itabori, or story board, and is produced and sold even to this day in Palau as craftwork depicting Palauan legends. This exhibition introduces the history of peace and friendship between Palau and Japan. It features the works of Ling Inabo, who represents the design studio in Palau that carries on Hijikata’s techniques. In addition, through the cooperation of the Belau National Museum, the works of artists with ties to Palau and Japan today are also displayed.
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