The art of making temari (lit. 'handball') has existed in Japan for over a thousand years. It is a toy for adults, as well as for children, and often features in New Year games. An elaborate ball can be given as a wedding gift or used as a decoration for the Girls' Day Festival (Hina Matsuri). Although appearing fragile, temari can be used in tossing, bouncing and catching games and these are usually accompanied by rhythmic songs known as temari uta.

Each ball is fashioned from a core of cloth, sawdust, rice husks or other recycled material and wound with brightly coloured thread. The designs can be either naturalistic or made up of intricate geometric patterns.

The tradition of making temari continued despite the introduction of rubber balls (gomu mari) in the late 19th century. Although still firmly rooted in the past, it is an artform which is constantly evolving and which also takes its inspiration from present-day innovations.

This exhibition was hosted with the cooperation of the Japan Temari Cultural Association.

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