【Closing Notice】NON Ribbon Exhibition: Mysterious and Cute Things. - Flocking Together -

Today marked the conclusion of the exhibition “Study: Osaka Kansai International Art Festival 2025 ‘NON Ribbon Exhibition: Mysterious and Cute Things. - Flocking Together -’”.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the many visitors who attended the teaser exhibition at the National Museum of Ethnology (Minpaku) entrance starting April 11th, and the expanded new works, the “kokeshi lanterns,” displayed in the basement exhibition room.

(April Teaser Exhibition)

The motifs NON has used thus far—kokeshi dolls, red and white beko, and Tanabata decorations—are traditional crafts passed down as folk tools throughout Japan since ancient times.

Starting July 31st, a large-scale installation titled “NON Ribbon Exhibition: Mysterious and Cute Things. - Flocking Together -” featured 15 Kokeshi Lanterns, including 10 new pieces adorned with multiple layers of red ribbons on their backs, gathered together in an underground space.

This exhibition took place underground at Expo '70 Commemorative Park, where the Tower of the Sun stands tall.
It was held in the special exhibition hall of the National Museum of Ethnology (Minpaku), built on the site of the 1970 Osaka World Expo.

This space holds the quiet repose of ethnographic materials from around the world, layered with traces of people's prayers and daily lives.
NON's ribbon art was born, inspired by this very space of “Minpaku.”

Alongside Kokeshi Lanterns, Nono's ribbon art world—both cute and eerie—unfolded with works like Red and White Calves Adorned with Butterflies, Nest of Crimson Children, and Tanabata Decorations.

(A red cow adorned with butterflies)

 

(A white cow adorned with butterflies)

 

(The Nest of the Crimson Child)

 

(15 Kokeshi Lanterns)

 

(At the Kokeshi Corner of the National Museum of Ethnology)

Starting tomorrow, the works including the “Kokeshi Lantern” will temporarily depart from Minpaku, setting off on a journey to their next destination.

Where will they shine next, and what kind of light will they illuminate? Please look forward to that day.

Updates will be announced on our official website and social media.

May Nonn's ribbon art meet you again somewhere.